India Issues NOTAM Extending Ban On Pakistani Aircraft Operations Till May 24
India extends ban on Pakistani aircraft in its airspace till May 24, continuing restrictions amid ongoing tensions.
The Government of India has extended its restriction on Pakistani aircraft using Indian airspace until May 24, according to an official Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). The decision continues a reciprocal airspace closure between the two countries that has now been in place for over a year, reflecting ongoing diplomatic and security tensions.
Under the latest directive issued by aviation authorities, Indian airspace will remain closed to Pakistan-registered aircraft, as well as planes operated, owned, or leased by Pakistani airlines and operators, including military flights. The restriction will remain effective until 23:59 UTC on May 23, which corresponds to 5:30 am IST on May 24.
The airspace restrictions were first introduced following heightened tensions after the Pahalgam terror attack, which led to the deaths of 26 people. Since then, both India and Pakistan have repeatedly extended reciprocal bans on each other’s aircraft, impacting regional air connectivity and international flight routes.
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The current closure means Indian airspace has been off-limits to Pakistani aircraft since April 30, while Pakistan has similarly restricted Indian aircraft since April 24, 2025. The measures are part of broader diplomatic responses between the two neighbours and have now been extended multiple times, typically on a monthly basis.
Aviation authorities note that such restrictions are communicated through NOTAMs, which provide critical operational updates to airlines and pilots. With the ongoing closure, Indian carriers continue to take longer alternative routes to reach several international destinations, leading to increased flight durations and higher fuel consumption. The continued airspace restrictions highlight the sustained strain in India-Pakistan relations, with no immediate indication of a policy shift from either side as security concerns remain central to the standoff.
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