Pakistan has extended its ban on Indian aircraft using its airspace for another month. The ban was initially imposed on April 24 following India’s unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty.
According to a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority on Monday, the country’s airspace will remain closed to all Indian commercial and military aircraft until July 23, 2025.
The restriction applies to all Indian-registered aircraft, including those on lease, and covers both passenger and military planes. “The ban has been extended for one month. Indian aircraft, including chartered and leased, are not permitted to enter Pakistani airspace,” the NOTAM stated.
The ban has resulted in significant operational and financial setbacks for Indian carriers. Aviation insiders estimate the losses to India at over Rs8.2 billion due to rerouting costs, longer flight durations and suspended cargo operations.
As the ban continues, industry experts warn that Indian carriers might soon be compelled to cut routes or hike fares, passing the burden onto passengers, unless diplomatic channels find a way to clear the air.
Pakistan initiated airspace closure as tensions flared between Pakistan and India following an April 22 attack in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), which left 26 civilians dead.
India blamed Pakistan-based elements without presenting any evidence, and Islamabad rejected the allegations. In response, India closed the Wagah border, revoked visas, and suspended the Indus Waters Treaty—moves Pakistan called an “act of war.”
The conflict intensified with India’s missile attacks and drone incursions as it launched its Operation Sindoor.
On May 10, Pakistan launched Operation Bunyanum Marsoos in retaliation, and announced it had downed five Indian jets—including Rafales—and intercepted 77 Israeli-made Harop drones.
Following diplomatic intervention led by Washington, both sides agreed to halt military activity across land, air, and sea.
