India has issued a new Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), extending the restrictions on its airspace for aircraft registered in Pakistan. This ban applies to all aircraft operated, owned, or leased by Pakistani airlines or operators, including military flights.
According to the new NOTAM issued by the aviation authority, this directive will be in effect from July 22 to approximately August 23, 2025. The ban persists due to the strained relations between the two nations.
The NOTAM clearly states that 'Indian airspace is not available for aircraft registered in Pakistan or operated/owned/leased by Pakistani airlines/operators, including military flights.'
The Ban Continues Since 2019
In fact, since 2019, following rising tensions between India and Pakistan, India has closed its airspace to Pakistani aircraft. Since then, India has periodically issued NOTAMs extending this restriction.
It's important to note that this ban presents logistical and financial challenges for the Pakistani aviation sector. Post-restriction, Pakistani aircraft need to take longer alternative routes, resulting in increased operational costs and delays in flight times. This move particularly affects Pakistan's international flights, as they have to travel further and take more expensive routes to avoid Indian airspace.
