Pakistan Extends Airspace Ban on Indian Aircraft Until August 24, 2026

By Malik Shahzad Aslam :

Pakistan has extended its restriction on Indian aircraft using its airspace for another month, keeping the ban in place until 24 August 2026, according to a new Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA).

The latest NOTAM was issued on the directives of the federal government and continues aviation restrictions that have been in force since 23 April 2025.

Under the renewed order, Pakistan’s airspace will remain closed to Indian-registered aircraft, planes owned, operated or leased by Indian airlines, as well as Indian military aircraft.

The previous NOTAM was due to expire on 24 July 2026, but the new directive extends the restrictions for an additional month unless authorities decide to amend or withdraw them earlier.

The continued closure has had a significant operational impact on Indian airlines serving international destinations. Airlines have been forced to reroute flights to Europe, the Middle East and Central Asia, avoiding Pakistani airspace and instead taking longer routes over alternative countries.

The extended flight paths have increased fuel consumption, crew operating hours and overall operating costs, while also adding travel time for passengers on several long-haul routes.

Industry analysts say prolonged airspace restrictions can place considerable financial pressure on airlines by reducing operational efficiency and increasing maintenance and scheduling costs.

Pakistan and India have maintained reciprocal airspace restrictions since tensions escalated in April 2025 following a deadly attack in the Pahalgam area of Indian-administered Kashmir. The diplomatic dispute led both countries to introduce a series of aviation and transport restrictions affecting commercial operations.

Airspace closures between neighbouring countries are uncommon but can have far-reaching consequences for the aviation industry. Airlines often need to redesign flight routes, carry additional fuel and adjust schedules, increasing operational complexity and costs.

The latest extension means the restrictions will remain in effect until 24 August 2026, unless aviation authorities in either country announce a change in policy before that date.

Aviation experts note that while airlines have largely adapted to the alternative routes over the past year, the continued closure limits operational flexibility and reduces the efficiency of air travel between South Asia and destinations further west.

For now, international carriers not covered by the restrictions continue to operate through Pakistani airspace, while Indian airlines will remain subject to the revised NOTAM until the current extension expires or new directives are issued.