Islamabad, April 24, 2025 — Pakistan has imposed a complete ban on Indian-registered aircraft using its airspace, a decision announced by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) following a high-level National Security Committee (NSC) meeting. The move, effective immediately, is set to disrupt air travel for Indian airlines and escalate costs for carriers reliant on Pakistani airspace for international routes.
The PCAA issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) detailing the airspace closure, which applies to all Indian-registered civil and military aircraft, as well as any planes leased or operated by Indian companies. The restriction is initially slated to last for 30 days, though officials have indicated it could be extended depending on the evolving geopolitical situation.
“This measure prohibits all Indian aircraft from transiting through Pakistani airspace,” the PCAA stated. The decision is seen as a response to heightened diplomatic friction between the two nations, though specific triggers for the closure were not disclosed.
Significant Impact on Indian Airlines
The ban is poised to disrupt operations for major Indian carriers, including IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Akasa Air, and Air India Express. Industry experts estimate that between 70 and 100 daily flights from cities like Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad traverse Pakistani airspace en route to destinations in the Middle East, Europe, and North America.
With the airspace closed, flights will need to be rerouted, potentially adding 90 to 120 minutes to journey times. This detour is expected to increase fuel consumption and operational costs, with analysts projecting daily losses in the range of tens of millions of rupees for Indian airlines. Passengers may also face higher ticket prices as carriers pass on these additional expenses.
Broader Implications
The airspace closure marks a significant escalation in the ongoing rivalry between Pakistan and India, further straining ties that have been tense for decades. Airspace restrictions have been used as a diplomatic tool in the past, notably in 2019, when Pakistan briefly closed its airspace following military skirmishes with India.
Aviation experts warn that the ban could have ripple effects on regional air travel, potentially affecting connectivity and trade. Alternate routes over the Arabian Sea or through other neighboring countries may lead to congestion and scheduling challenges for international carriers.
Neither the Pakistani nor Indian governments have issued detailed statements on the closure, but the move has sparked debate among travelers and industry stakeholders. Social media platforms are abuzz with reactions, with some expressing frustration over the inconvenience and others viewing the decision as a necessary assertion of sovereignty.
As the situation develops, all eyes will be on whether diplomatic efforts can resolve the impasse or if the airspace ban will persist, further complicating air travel in the region.
