The restriction applies to aircraft operated, owned or leased by Indian airlines or operators, including military flights.
Air India branding is seen on an Airbus A350-900 at the Farnborough International Airshow in Farnborough, Britain, July 24, 2024. PHOTO: REUTERS
The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) on Tuesday again extended the ban on Indian aircraft from using its airspace, marking a year of continued restrictions following the Pahalgam incident in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
Pakistan has kept its airspace closed to Indian planes since April 2025, when tensions between the two countries sharply intensified after an attack in Pahalgam.
New Delhi had alleged Islamabad’s involvement in the incident without presenting evidence. Pakistan rejected the accusation and offered to support a neutral investigation.
According to a new Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued today, the PAA said Pakistan’s airspace will remain closed to all Indian-registered aircraft.
The restriction also applies to aircraft operated, owned or leased by Indian airlines or operators, including military flights, the NOTAM adds.
The ban covers Pakistan’s two flight information regions – Karachi and Lahore – as noted in the Civil Aviation Authority of Pakistan’s documentation.
The latest NOTAM was issued just days before the previous restriction expired on April 24.
The continued ban on airspace has resulted in significant financial losses for Indian airlines, which are forced to take longer alternative routes.
These diversions have increased flight times and fuel costs for services between India and destinations in Europe, the Middle East and Central Asia.
