The Pakistan Airports Authority has extended restrictions on Indian aircraft until November 24, prolonging reciprocal airspace limitations that continue to affect aviation operations between the two countries.
Pakistan Extends Airspace Restrictions on Indian Aircraft
Pakistan has extended its ban on Indian aircraft using its airspace until November 24, according to a notice issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) on Saturday.
A PAA spokesperson said the Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) would remain in effect until 5 a.m. on November 24. The restriction applies to Indian aircraft operating through Pakistani airspace.
Pakistan initially imposed the ban on April 23, 2025, following heightened tensions with India after an attack in Pahalgam, in Indian-administered Kashmir.
India Introduces Reciprocal Airspace Ban
India accused Pakistan of involvement in the Pahalgam attack, an allegation Islamabad denied. Pakistan called for an independent and transparent investigation into the incident.
India subsequently closed its airspace to Pakistani airlines on April 30, 2025, introducing a reciprocal restriction that further affected aviation connectivity between the neighbours.
May 2025 Military Confrontation Intensifies Tensions
Tensions escalated in May 2025, when India launched strikes on locations in Pakistan on May 6 and 7. Pakistan responded with a military operation targeting Indian military installations.
The confrontation ended with a ceasefire announced on May 10, 2025, following several days of hostilities.
During the confrontation, Pakistan claimed to have shot down eight Indian fighter aircraft, including three Rafale jets. These claims were not independently verified in the information provided.
Airspace Restrictions Disrupt Regional Aviation
The continuing restrictions have disrupted aviation operations between India and Pakistan, forcing airlines to adjust flight routes and, in some cases, increasing travel times and operating costs.
Airlines operating between destinations affected by the restrictions may need to use alternative routings, depending on their flight paths and operational requirements.
Pakistan and India have imposed reciprocal airspace restrictions during previous periods of heightened tensions, including after the 2019 Pulwama attack and during earlier military confrontations.
Restrictions Highlight Impact on Air Connectivity
The latest extension underscores how strained bilateral relations continue to affect regional aviation. With the restrictions remaining in place until November 24, airlines must continue planning operations around the limitations affecting Indian aircraft in Pakistani airspace.
