PAK to Extend Airspace Ban on Indian Flights for One More Month

In a continued diplomatic standoff, Pakistan has officially extended its ban on Indian flights using its airspace for one more month, citing ongoing regional tensions and security concerns. This move is expected to impact international flight operations, increase travel times, and stir further geopolitical debate.

• Pakistan extends airspace restrictions on Indian flights until next month

• The ban affects commercial and civilian flights from India passing over Pakistan

• International carriers face rerouting and longer flight times

• Islamabad cites security and political tensions as reasons for the extension

• Diplomatic experts urge dialogue and de-escalation between the two nations

The airspace restriction was first imposed following a series of diplomatic and military escalations between India and Pakistan.

• The ban originally stemmed from political fallout after the revocation of Article 370 in Jammu & Kashmir by India in August 2019.

• Pakistan had closed parts of its airspace multiple times in the past in reaction to military or political developments.

• The most recent ban came into effect following heightened military activity along the Line of Control (LoC) and unresolved diplomatic rows.

The Civil Aviation Authority of Pakistan (CAA) confirmed that the current ban, which was due to expire this week, will now continue until the end of next month (date may vary depending on when extension began).

“The restriction has been extended due to ongoing national security considerations,” a CAA official told local media.

• Indian commercial airlines that use Pakistani airspace for flights to Europe, the Middle East, and the US

• International carriers with Indian connections (such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Singapore Airlines), which often rely on Pakistani air corridors for optimal routes

• Cargo planes and freight routes are also facing rerouting challenges

• Increased flight time and fuel costs

• Longer flight paths over China, Central Asia, or the southern seas

• Disruption in scheduling and operational budgets

• Longer flights between India and destinations in Europe, Canada, and the US

• Higher ticket prices due to rerouting and fuel surcharges

• Potential flight delays and cancellations

Several international aviation authorities and diplomatic observers have expressed concern over the ongoing restrictions.

“Airspace should remain neutral and be used in the interest of global connectivity, barring extreme security risks.”

“This ongoing ban not only adds costs but disrupts the post-COVID recovery of global travel.”

While the Indian government has not officially responded to the latest extension, previous statements reflect India’s disappointment over Pakistan’s continued restrictions.

Indian Civil Aviation Ministry official:

“We hope for a diplomatic resolution soon. Passengers and airlines are bearing unnecessary costs.”

• National security risks in the region

• Ongoing border tensions and military escalations

• Need to monitor cross-border aerial movement more strictly

• Demonstrating diplomatic pressure against what it sees as unilateral Indian actions in Kashmir

“Until regional issues are addressed with sincerity and dialogue, Pakistan will use all legal and diplomatic tools available.”

“This is not just about airspace. It reflects how strained Pakistan-India ties remain, despite regional needs for cooperation.”

“The ban affects global routes, not just India. Pakistan holds a critical geographic location for aviation. Such moves hurt connectivity and tourism.”

Observers and diplomats are urging peaceful engagement between India and Pakistan to resolve tensions and remove aviation restrictions.

Several former diplomats from both countries have suggested:

• Bilateral talks to separate aviation from politics

• Establishment of a permanent airspace agreement

• Third-party mediation through ICAO or UN aviation bodies

This isn’t the first time the skies have become a battleground:

• In 2019, after the Balakot airstrikes, Pakistan closed its entire airspace to India for over five months

• During Kargil and other historical conflicts, temporary bans were also enforced

• In each case, closures led to disruptions in global travel and rising costs