Pakistan has decided to extend the airspace closure for Indian aircraft until January 23, 2026, according to officials from the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA). The restriction applies to all Indian registered aircraft, including commercial airlines, leased planes, and military flights.
The ban covers both major flight information regions under Pakistan’s control, Karachi (OPKR) and Lahore (OPLR). This means Indian aircraft are not allowed to enter or pass through Pakistani airspace during this period, regardless of the purpose of the flight.
Officials said the decision follows a continued review of regional security and diplomatic conditions. The airspace restriction was first imposed amid rising tensions between the two countries and has been extended several times since then. The latest extension signals that the situation has not changed enough to allow a reopening.
The closure has had a noticeable impact on Indian airlines, which are forced to take longer routes for international flights to Europe, the Middle East, and North America. These detours increase fuel costs and travel time, placing additional financial pressure on carriers.
Pakistan, on the other hand, maintains that the decision is based on national security and aviation safety considerations. The PAA has stated that all international aviation protocols are being followed and that foreign airlines from other countries remain unaffected.
Aviation experts note that prolonged airspace restrictions are rare but not unprecedented in tense regional situations. They also point out that such measures often reflect broader political dynamics rather than aviation issues alone.
As of now, there has been no official response from Indian authorities regarding the latest extension. The situation will likely remain under review, with any future change depending on diplomatic and security developments between the two countries.
