Pakistan Extends Airspace Ban on Indian Flights Until May 24
Prolonged aviation restrictions continue to disrupt regional connectivity and raise operational costs for airlines
NEW DELHI, Apr 21: The ongoing aviation standoff between India and Pakistan has entered another phase, with Pakistan on Tuesday extending its airspace closure for Indian aircraft until May 24. The decision ensures that the restriction, first imposed in April last year, will remain in force for over a year, significantly impacting bilateral aviation dynamics and international flight operations.
The extension comes amid continuing tensions following the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, on April 22, 2025, which claimed the lives of 26 people. In the aftermath of the incident, both nations implemented reciprocal airspace restrictions, effectively suspending overflight access for each other’s carriers.
According to the latest Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by Pakistan’s aviation authorities, the country’s airspace will remain inaccessible to all Indian-registered aircraft, as well as those operated, owned, or leased by Indian airlines and operators. The directive also applies to military flights, reinforcing the comprehensive nature of the ban.
The updated NOTAM specifies that the restriction will remain in effect from April 21 until 2359 hours (UTC) on May 23, corresponding to 0530 hours (IST) on May 24. This extension continues a pattern of monthly renewals, reflecting the absence of any immediate diplomatic breakthrough between the two neighbors.
The prolonged closure has had tangible consequences for Indian aviation companies, forcing them to reroute flights to various international destinations. These longer flight paths have resulted in increased fuel consumption, extended travel times, and higher operational costs. Airlines have had to adjust schedules and pricing strategies to accommodate the logistical challenges posed by the restricted airspace.
On the other side, India has also maintained its ban on Pakistani aircraft using its airspace. The current Indian restriction is in place until 0530 hours (IST) on April 24 and is widely expected to be extended further, in line with past practice. The reciprocal measures highlight the continued strain in diplomatic and security relations between the two countries.
The initial ban imposed by India in April 2025 was part of a broader set of measures taken in response to the Pahalgam terror attack. Since then, both countries have shown little movement toward easing aviation restrictions, indicating that the issue remains tied to larger geopolitical concerns.
A NOTAM, commonly used in aviation, is an official notice that provides critical information to pilots and flight operators regarding changes or hazards that could affect flight safety. In this case, it serves as the formal mechanism for communicating the ongoing airspace restrictions.
As the standoff continues, aviation experts warn that prolonged disruptions could have lasting economic implications for airlines and passengers alike. Until diplomatic relations improve, the Pakistan airspace closure for Indian planes is expected to remain a key factor shaping flight operations in the region.
