Pakistan extends airspace ban for Indian flights by one month

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has decided to extend the closure of its airspace for Indian aircraft by another month, aviation sources confirmed.

The ban was initially imposed on April 24 amid heightened tensions between Pakistan and India. It was later extended on May 23, with the previous extension expiring today.

Pakistani authorities have now decided to keep the airspace closed for Indian flights until the end of the next month.

A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) is expected to be issued by the afternoon to formalize the extension.

It is worth noting that India has also imposed a reciprocal ban, closing its airspace to Pakistani aircraft in response.

Earlier, Pakistan Airports Authority extended the ban on Indian aircraft flying through its airspace until June 24, 2025.

According to the Pakistan Airports Authority, the restriction applies to all aircraft registered, operated, owned, or leased by India, including military planes, with no exceptions for Indian airlines or operators.

The ban has been extended until 4:59 AM on June 24, 2025.

The Pakistan airspace closure, for Indian flights has been in effect for over a month, was initially imposed by in response to India’s decision to block river water flow into Pakistan. The ongoing airspace restriction has severely impacted Indian airlines, resulting in estimated losses of Rs 8 billion.

Around 150 flights of Boeing 777 and Airbus aircraft face additional travel times of two to four hours daily.