Pakistan has extended its ban on Indian aircraft using its airspace, in a move that reflects the ongoing diplomatic and military tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. The extension, announced by Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority on Friday, prolongs the restriction until the early morning of June 24, further disrupting air travel between India and several global destinations.
The ban, initially imposed on April 24, came after a deadly escalation of hostilities that resulted in the worst violence between the two countries in decades. Over 70 people were killed in missile, drone, and artillery exchanges before a ceasefire was brokered on May 10. The conflict was triggered by a fatal attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir, which India alleged was backed by Pakistan a claim Islamabad has denied, calling instead for an independent investigation.
The statement from Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority clarified that the ban applies to all Indian civilian and military aircraft. In a reciprocal move, India had also imposed a ban on Pakistani carriers, effective until June 23.
This airspace closure has far-reaching consequences for aviation and regional connectivity. Flights from India to Europe, North America, and Central Asia are now taking up to two hours longer, as airlines are forced to reroute around Pakistani airspace. The additional flight time not only leads to increased fuel consumption but may also result in higher ticket prices for passengers.
This is not the first time Pakistan has taken such a step. In 2019, after Indian airstrikes in response to a terror attack in Kashmir, Pakistan closed its airspace for nearly five months. Indian government data indicates that the move cost Indian airlines approximately 5.5 billion rupees ($64.3 million).
With diplomatic channels strained and mutual distrust running deep, the aviation sector may continue to bear the brunt of geopolitical tensions a situation with costly implications for regional and international travelers alike.
