Pakistan has decided to keep its airspace closed for Indian flights until October 24. The announcement was made through a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Pakistan Aviation Authority.
The ban, which has been in place since April following the Pahalgam attack, applies to all Indian aircraft, whether civilian or military. This includes planes owned, leased, or operated by Indian carriers. The restriction covers all routes and altitudes, making it a complete suspension of Indian flight operations through Pakistan’s skies.
The decision comes after months of strained relations between the two neighbors. Islamabad has strongly denied New Delhi’s claims regarding the Pahalgam incident and has instead called for an independent and neutral investigation. Despite diplomatic efforts, the dispute has continued to affect aviation and regional connectivity.
In May, a U.S.-brokered truce raised hopes for progress, but the airspace ban has been extended several times since then. Officials in Islamabad say the step is necessary for national security and will remain in force until further notice.
The extension is likely to increase flight times and costs for Indian airlines, as they are forced to take longer routes to avoid Pakistan’s airspace. Aviation experts believe that unless political tensions ease, the ban may continue to impact travel and trade in the region.
For now, the restriction will stay until October 24, unless both sides move toward dialogue and confidence-building measures in the coming weeks.
