ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has extended its ban on the use of its airspace by Indian aircraft until May 24, marking over a year since the restrictions were initially imposed. The closure, which affects Indian registered aircraft and those operated by Indian airlines, including military flights, was announced via a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) by the Pakistan Airport Authority.
Information was available with The Chenab Times that the latest extension means the ban will continue to impact flight schedules for international routes originating from or passing through India. The restrictions are in effect from April 21 and will remain until 2359 hours UTC on May 23, which corresponds to 0530 hours IST on May 24.
The initial closure of Pakistan’s airspace for Indian planes came into effect on April 24, 2025, following an incident. Simultaneously, India had also barred Pakistani aircraft from using its airspace, with that restriction initially set to expire on April 24. These reciprocal measures have significantly altered flight paths for airlines relying on transit through the respective air territories.
The move by Pakistan is part of a broader pattern of aviation restrictions that have been in place since last year. The ban was initially implemented for a specific period but has since been extended multiple times. The original impetus for the widespread airspace closures was linked to an attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, in April of the previous year.
A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) is a vital communication issued by aviation authorities to alert pilots and other flight operations personnel to potential hazards or significant changes in facilities or services that could affect flight safety. These notices are crucial for maintaining operational awareness and ensuring the safe conduct of air travel.
For Indian carriers, the continued closure of Pakistani airspace has necessitated longer and more circuitous routes for various international destinations, particularly those in the Middle East and Europe. This has led to increased operational costs, longer flight durations, and potential delays for passengers. The economic implications for airlines, including fuel consumption and crew scheduling, are significant.
While the focus of this extension is on Indian aircraft using Pakistan’s airspace, the broader context includes the ongoing diplomatic and security tensions between the two neighbouring countries. The reciprocal nature of the airspace closures underscores the heightened state of alert and the disruption to normal cross-border transit operations.
The Pakistan Airport Authority’s directive ensures that all Indian registered aircraft, as well as those owned, operated, or leased by Indian entities, are prohibited from entering its airspace. This includes both commercial and military aviation assets, reinforcing the comprehensive nature of the ban. The repeated extensions suggest a lack of immediate resolution to the underlying issues that led to the initial imposition of these restrictions.
Authorities in India have also maintained restrictions on Pakistani aircraft, highlighting the mutual nature of the airspace closures. The continuity of these measures points to a sustained period of disrupted air connectivity between India and Pakistan, impacting not only bilateral relations but also regional and international aviation logistics. The situation remains fluid, with further extensions anticipated if diplomatic relations do not improve.
The Chenab Times News Desk