Pakistan Extends Airspace Ban on Indian Aircraft Until August 24

ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has extended its ban on Indian-registered aircraft and aircraft operated, owned, or leased by Indian airlines and operators, including military flights, from using its airspace until August 24, 2026, according to a fresh Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) on government directives.

Under the new NOTAM, all Indian-registered aircraft, as well as aircraft operated or leased by Indian airlines and operators, will continue to be prohibited from entering or transiting Pakistan’s airspace for another month. The restriction also applies to Indian military aircraft.

Pakistan initially closed its airspace to Indian aircraft on April 23, 2025, following heightened bilateral tensions. The restriction has since been extended several times as relations between the two neighboring countries remain strained.

The continued closure is expected to compel Indian airlines operating westbound international flights to use longer alternative routes, resulting in increased flight times, higher fuel consumption, and additional operational costs.

The latest extension underscores the ongoing diplomatic and security challenges between Pakistan and India, with no immediate indication of when normal airspace operations between the two countries will resume.