Pakistan extends airspace ban for Indian aircraft, airlines till July 24

According to a NOTAM, or Notice to Airmen, issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority, the ban has been extended from June 23 to July 23.

Pakistan extended its airspace closure for Indian aircraft and airlines by another month on Monday. The restriction will now remain in effect until the early hours of July 24. The extension was communicated through a fresh Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by Pakistan’s aviation authorities.

The ban was initially imposed on April 23 for one month in the wake of tension between the two countries following the Pahalgam terrorist attack that killed at least 26 people.

Later, it was extended for another month on May 23, when ties had deteriorated due to the four day conflict as India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7 and destroyed terror infrastructure in territories controlled by Pakistan.

According to a NOTAM, or Notice to Airmen, issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority, the ban has been extended from June 23 to July 23.

“Pakistan airspace not available for Indian registered aircraft and aircraft operated/owned or leased by Indian airlines/operators including military flights,” it said.

The ongoing restrictions are having a significant operational impact on Indian airlines. With Pakistani airspace off-limits, nearly 800 flights per week are being forced to take longer, more circuitous routes. This has led to increased fuel consumption, extended flight durations and added complexities in crew deployment and scheduling, all contributing to rising operational costs for Indian carriers.