Pakistan has extended the closure of its airspace for Indian aircraft until next month, according to an official Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued on Wednesday by the Pakistan Airport Authority (PAA). The new directive continues the existing ban until November 23, affecting all Indian-registered aircraft, leased planes, and Indian airlines operating flights that would typically pass through Pakistani airspace.
The extension comes amid ongoing diplomatic tensions between the two neighboring countries. The measure was first introduced earlier this year following India’s military strike inside Pakistani territory, which led Islamabad to restrict Indian air traffic as a precautionary and security-driven decision.
Officials stated that the airspace closure aims to ensure the safety and sovereignty of Pakistan’s airspace, particularly in light of continued geopolitical strain. The move reinforces Islamabad’s stance that national security takes precedence over regional connectivity until the situation stabilizes.
The extended ban has also had significant economic implications for Indian airlines, which have been forced to reroute flights to avoid Pakistani territory. These detours have increased operational costs, fuel consumption, and flight durations. Industry analysts estimate that the continued closure has resulted in financial losses worth billions of rupees for Indian carriers since the initial restrictions were imposed.
Aviation experts note that while the NOTAM remains temporary, its repeated extensions suggest that no immediate diplomatic resolution is expected. The ongoing airspace restrictions have disrupted key international routes between India, Europe, and the Middle East, further straining regional aviation networks.
The Pakistan Airport Authority has not issued any further clarification on whether the ban will be lifted after November 23 or extended again. However, sources close to the aviation ministry indicate that future decisions will depend on regional security conditions and bilateral relations between Islamabad and New Delhi.
This development highlights how geopolitical tensions continue to influence the aviation landscape in South Asia, with both nations facing operational and economic challenges as diplomatic efforts remain stalled.
