Pakistan has extended its ban on Indian aircraft using its airspace for another month, according to a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority on Monday. The airspace will remain closed to all Indian commercial and military aircraft until July 23, 2025. This restriction includes all Indian-registered aircraft, even those operating under lease agreements, covering both passenger and military flights. “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 continued ban has caused significant operational and financial challenges for Indian carriers. Aviation experts estimate that the losses to India have surpassed Rs8.2 billion due to rerouting costs, increased flight durations, and suspended cargo operations. Industry insiders warn that unless diplomatic efforts resolve the issue soon, Indian airlines may be forced to reduce routes or raise fares, ultimately passing the cost burden onto passengers.
The airspace closure was first imposed on April 24 following escalating tensions between Pakistan and India, triggered by an attack on April 22 in Pahalgam, Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK), which left 26 civilians dead. India accused Pakistan-based elements of orchestrating the attack but failed to present evidence, a charge Islamabad firmly rejected. In retaliation, India closed the Wagah border, revoked visas for Pakistani nationals, and suspended the 65-year-old Indus Waters Treaty—measures Pakistan described as an “act of war.”
The conflict further escalated with India launching missile strikes and drone incursions under “Operation Sindoor.” Pakistan responded with “Operation Bunyanum Marsoos” on May 10, claiming to have downed five Indian jets, including Rafale fighters, and intercepted 77 Israeli-made Harop drones. Following diplomatic intervention led by Washington, both countries agreed to a ceasefire, halting military activity across land, air, and sea.
Despite the temporary truce, the airspace ban remains in place, reflecting the fragile state of relations and the ongoing challenges in normalizing bilateral ties.
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