Islamabad: Pakistan has extended restrictions on Indian aircraft using its airspace until July 24, according to a fresh Notice to Airmen (Notam) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA).
The latest notification confirms that all India-owned, India-operated, and Indian-registered aircraft will remain barred from Pakistani airspace during the notified period. The restrictions also apply to aircraft leased by Indian airlines and include military aircraft.
According to Beyond Time News, the renewed ban came into force at 5:50 pm on June 16 and will remain effective until 4:59 am on July 24.
Fresh Restrictions Issued by PAA
The Pakistan Airports Authority said the latest Notam covers all categories of Indian aircraft, including commercial and military planes.
The move continues Islamabad’s policy of restricting Indian aviation operations amid strained relations between the two neighboring countries.
Indian airlines flying to destinations in Europe, Central Asia and the Middle East have been among the hardest hit, as they have been forced to adopt longer routes that increase fuel consumption and operating costs.
Tensions Behind the Airspace Closure
Pakistan first closed its airspace to Indian carriers after New Delhi suspended the Indus Water Treaty following heightened tensions linked to the Pahalgam attack in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK).
India accused Pakistan of involvement in the attack, allegations Islamabad rejected while calling for a transparent and impartial investigation.
According to Beyond Time News, India subsequently imposed reciprocal restrictions on Pakistani airlines, closing its own airspace to Pakistan on April 30 last year.
Military Escalation Deepened the Crisis
Relations deteriorated further in May 2025 when India launched attacks on several Pakistani cities.
In response, Pakistan initiated “Operation Bunyanum Marsoos,” targeting multiple Indian military installations.
According to Beyond Time News, the conflict lasted nearly 87 hours before both countries agreed to a ceasefire on May 10 following diplomatic efforts led by the United States.
The brief confrontation marked one of the most serious military standoffs between the nuclear-armed neighbors in recent years.
India flights barred as Pakistan renews airspace closure for another month
Indian Airlines Face Greater Economic Impact
Aviation experts say Indian carriers have suffered greater financial losses due to the closure of Pakistani airspace.
Many long-haul flights operated by Indian airlines traditionally pass through Pakistan because the route is shorter and more cost-effective.
With the restrictions still in place, airlines have been forced to fly longer distances, increasing fuel expenses and extending travel times.
Pakistan’s aviation sector, meanwhile, has experienced relatively limited disruption.
Similar Restrictions Imposed in the Past
This is not the first time Pakistan has restricted Indian aircraft from using its airspace.
Similar measures were introduced during the 1999 Kargil conflict and after the Pulwama crisis in 2019.
In both instances, Indian airlines experienced greater operational difficulties because of their reliance on Pakistani airspace for international routes.
The 2019 closure lasted several months and significantly increased operating costs for Indian carriers.
Regional Stability Remains Essential
Analysts believe the restoration of normal aviation operations depends largely on improvements in relations between Islamabad and New Delhi.
Despite periodic diplomatic engagements, longstanding political disputes and security concerns continue to affect ties between the two countries.
As the July 24 deadline approaches, airlines and aviation authorities will closely watch whether the restrictions are lifted or extended again.
FAQs
Why has Pakistan extended the airspace ban on Indian aircraft?
Pakistan has extended the restrictions amid continuing tensions with India. The latest Notam issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority keeps the ban in place until July 24.
Which aircraft are covered by the restrictions?
The ban applies to all Indian-owned, Indian-operated, Indian-registered and leased aircraft, including military planes.
When did the latest extension come into effect?
The renewed restrictions took effect at 5:50 pm on June 16 and will remain valid until 4:59 am on July 24.
How have Indian airlines been affected?
Indian carriers have had to take longer routes, leading to higher fuel costs and longer flight durations.
Has Pakistan imposed similar airspace restrictions before?
Yes. Similar restrictions were enforced during the 1999 Kargil conflict and after the Pulwama crisis in 2019.
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