Pakistan extends airspace ban for Indian airlines

Pakistan has extended its closure of airspace to Indian-registered aircraft and those operated, owned, or leased by Indian airlines—including military flights—until July 23, 2025, amid ongoing tensions between the two neighbours, media reports said.

The Pakistan Airports Authority issued a fresh Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) extending the ban, which was initially set to last until June 24, according to media reports. The restriction will now remain in effect until the early hours of July 24.

The airspace ban was first imposed on April 24 following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, including security personnel and civilians.

This move barred Indian carriers and aircraft from overflying Pakistani territory. India responded on April 30 with a reciprocal closure of its airspace to Pakistani aircraft and airlines. The bans were initially extended on May 23, keeping the restrictions in place until June 24, IE reported.

According to media, the extension complies with International Civil Aviation Organization (ICAO) guidelines, which permit airspace restrictions for only one month at a time.

The Pahalgam attack led to India’s retaliatory ‘Operation Sindoor’ air strikes on May 7, targeting terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir—a significant escalation in cross-border military activity.

Pakistan’s airspace closure affects Indian commercial and military flights, forcing airlines to take longer routes to destinations in the Middle East, Europe, and North America. This results in increased fuel consumption and longer travel times, reports say.