Pakistan has extended its airspace ban on Indian aircraft until August 24, as confirmed by a statement from the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) released late Friday. The restriction, first enacted on April 24, is part of reciprocal actions taken by both nations amid military clashes between the neighbouring countries.

 

 

The PAA stated that the ban applies to all aircraft registered in India as well as those operated, owned, or leased by Indian airlines or operators, including military flights. The Authority mentioned, “All aircraft operated by Indian airlines will not have permission to use Pakistani airspace. This ban will remain effective until 4:59 am Pakistan time on August 24.”

 

 

The closure of airspace was initially declared after an attack in Indian Illegally occupied Jammu and  Kashmir resulted in the death of 26 people. India held Pakistan responsible for the incident, although it did not present evidence, while Pakistan denied any involvement and called for an international investigation. Tensions between the two nations intensified, culminating in a four-day long military clash in May.

 

 

In addition to the conflict over Kashmir, Pakistan's decision also followed India's unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty earlier this year, which Pakistan characterized as a breach of longstanding agreements. The airspace ban was implemented as part of a series of reciprocal actions following these events.

 

 

This latest extension is the third occasion that Pakistan has lengthened the restriction. The ban was previously renewed in May and June after its initial one-month period had ended.

 

 

Indian airlines have had to divert their flights due to the airspace closure, resulting in increased flight durations and higher operational expenses. Air India, which provides several long-haul flights to Europe and North America, estimated in May that the ongoing ban could cost the airline approximately $600 million annually. The airline has requested compensation from the Indian government to mitigate the financial burden.

 

 

The closure impacts both civilian and military aviation. Indian commercial flights to Western destinations are now taking extended routes that avoid Pakistan, leading to greater fuel usage and operational delays.

 

 

The PAA announced the most recent extension through a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen), notifying all operators that Pakistani airspace will remain off-limits to aircraft registered or operated by India until the specified deadline.