Pakistan Extends Ban On Indian Aircraft In Its Airspace Till May 24, Says NOTAM
Pakistan extends airspace restrictions on Indian flights, impacting routes and escalating tensions after Pahalgam attack.
Pakistan has extended its ban on Indian aircraft using its airspace for another month, intensifying ongoing aviation restrictions between the two neighboring countries. The decision, announced on Tuesday, continues a policy first implemented in April 2025 amid heightened diplomatic tensions following a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam.
According to the Pakistan Airports Authority, a fresh Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) confirms that all Indian-registered, leased, commercial, and military aircraft will remain prohibited from entering Pakistani airspace until 5 a.m. on May 24, 2026. The extension was issued just days before the previous deadline of April 24, ensuring the restrictions remain uninterrupted.
The airspace closure was originally enforced after India blamed Pakistan for the Pahalgam terror attack, a charge Islamabad has strongly denied. Pakistani authorities have instead called for an independent and transparent investigation into the incident. The diplomatic fallout from the attack has led to reciprocal actions, with India also barring Pakistani aircraft from its airspace.
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The continued restriction has had significant operational and financial consequences, particularly for Indian airlines. Carriers have traditionally relied on Pakistani airspace for efficient routes connecting major Indian cities with destinations in the Gulf region. The longer detours now required have increased fuel consumption, extended travel times, and contributed to reported losses amounting to billions of rupees.
This is the first time Pakistan has imposed such prolonged airspace restrictions specifically targeting Indian flights. However, similar measures have been seen in the past during periods of military or political conflict, including the 1999 Kargil conflict and the 2019 Pulwama crisis, both of which disrupted regional aviation for extended periods.
As the current ban continues, aviation experts suggest that prolonged restrictions could further strain airline operations and regional connectivity. The situation remains closely tied to broader diplomatic relations between the two countries, with no immediate resolution in sight.
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