PAA says Pakistan airspace remains closed to all Indian-registered aircraft
An Indian airline Spicejet plane making a final approach to land at Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi. PHOTO: AFP
The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) on Tuesday extended restrictions on Indian aircraft using its airspace until June 24.
Pakistan has kept its airspace closed to Indian planes since April 2025, when tensions between the two countries sharply escalated after an attack in the illegally occupied Indian province of Jammu and Kashmir 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.
NOTAM: Airspace ban against Indian aircraft (including military) extended until June 24, 4:59 a.m. PKT.
– Pakistan Airports Authority (@Pk_PAA_Official) May 19, 2026
According to a new Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued on Wednesday, the authority 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.
It said the ban covered 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 May 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.
