In a continuation of rising tensions between the two countries, Pakistan has announced that its airspace will remain closed to Indian airlines until September 23, 2025, according to a recent notice issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority.
Months-Long Closure Disrupts Flight Operations
The airspace restrictions, initially imposed on April 23, were triggered amid escalating political and military strains in the region. Since the first closure, Pakistani authorities have repeatedly extended the ban, creating ongoing disruptions for Indian carriers.
Airlines from India have been forced to take significantly longer routes to avoid Pakistani airspace, leading to higher fuel consumption and operational expenses. Industry analysts estimate that Indian carriers have suffered losses amounting to billions of rupees due to the prolonged rerouting.
Political Fallout Behind the Ban
The decision traces back to an April escalation in tensions following the alleged false flag operation in Pahalgam and India’s unilateral move to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty. In response, Pakistan invoked its right to suspend bilateral agreements with India.
During an emergency National Security Committee session chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif, the government enacted a series of retaliatory measures. These included:
- Declaring defense, naval, and air advisors at the Indian High Commission in Islamabad as persona non grata, ordering their immediate departure.
- Extending the closure of Pakistani airspace to all Indian aircraft.
- Halting trade with India, including transactions routed through third-party nations.
A Broader Pattern of Diplomatic Measures
This latest airspace extension comes alongside other recent actions by Pakistan, such as the suspension of the Simla Accord and the closure of the Wagah border. Analysts suggest that these moves reflect a broader strategy by Islamabad to signal its discontent with New Delhi’s regional policies while exerting economic and logistical pressure.
With no immediate resolution in sight, Indian airlines and businesses dependent on cross-border trade may face continued challenges as political tensions show no signs of easing.
