Pakistan Extends Airspace Ban on Indian Aircraft by One More Month

Pakistan has extended its ban on the use of its airspace by India-registered aircraft for another month. The restriction will now remain in effect until July 24, continuing a measure that has been in place since last year. The airspace ban was first imposed in April 2025, a day after a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, claimed the lives of 26 people. The incident significantly escalated tensions between India and Pakistan, eventually leading to a four-day military confrontation between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. In response to Pakistan's decision, India had also imposed similar restrictions on Pakistani aircraft from using its airspace. According to a notice issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority on Wednesday, the restriction applies to all India-registered aircraft, including both civilian and military flights. The extended ban will remain effective from 5:50 pm on June 16 until 4:59 am on July 24. Although military tensions between the two countries have eased compared to the height of the crisis, diplomatic relations remain strained. Several restrictions and reciprocal measures introduced during the period of heightened tensions continue to remain in force. The prolonged closure of Pakistan's airspace is expected to increase operational costs for Indian airlines. Carriers operating flights to Central Asia, Europe, West Asia, and North America are continuing to use longer alternative routes, resulting in increased flight durations and higher fuel consumption.