The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has decided to keep its airspace closed for all aircraft registered in India until August 24 at 4:59 am. This update was shared in a new Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued on Friday.
The restriction means that no Indian-owned, operated, or leased aircraft can fly through Pakistan’s airspace during this period. This ban includes both commercial and military flights from India.
The decision to close the airspace was first made on April 24 as a reaction to India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT), an agreement that has been in place for decades to manage water sharing between the two countries.
Pakistan has called India’s move on the water treaty unfair and damaging to peaceful relations. In response, Pakistan chose to stop Indian planes from using its skies. This action has forced many Indian airlines to change their flight routes, often making flights longer and costlier.
The new extension means airlines must continue to find other paths around Pakistani airspace. Passengers on flights between India and Europe or the Middle East may experience longer travel times due to rerouting.
Airlines have been advised to plan ahead and update their schedules so that flights remain safe and on time despite the restriction.
This extended airspace closure shows how political tensions between India and Pakistan can affect air travel and passengers around the world. Travelers are advised to check with their airlines for any schedule changes until the restriction is lifted.
