ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has extended a ban on Indian-registered aircraft from using its airspace until May 24, the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) said, with the curbs set to mark one year this week since they were first imposed.
The restrictions, introduced on Apr. 23 last year following a sharp escalation in tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors, have been rolled over repeatedly, forcing Indian carriers to reroute international flights and absorb higher fuel and operational costs.
“Pakistan’s airspace will remain closed to Indian-registered aircraft and Indian airlines/operators, including military flights,” the PAA said. “The restriction will remain in effect until 0459 hours on May 24, 2026.”
Pakistan initially imposed the restriction as part of tit-for-tat measures days after an attack in Indian-administered Kashmir that killed 26 tourists, which New Delhi blamed on Islamabad, an allegation Pakistan denied.
The situation escalated into cross-border strikes and four days of missile, drone and artillery exchanges before a ceasefire was brokered on May 10.
The continuing ban has particularly affected Indian carriers such as Air India, which operate long-haul flights to Europe and North America and have been forced to take longer routes, increasing flight times and costs.
Air India has been under mounting financial pressure, reporting a combined loss of about $1.05 billion in the 2024–2025 financial year, with the strain worsening after Pakistan barred Indian carriers from using its airspace, according to Reuters.
The airline is also undergoing a leadership transition after CEO Campbell Wilson stepped down this month, as it grapples with operational challenges, regulatory scrutiny and persistent losses.
