Pakistan has extended its ban on Indian aircraft using its airspace until June 23, 2026, according to a fresh Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority on Tuesday, according to The Nation. The decision signals that tensions between the two neighboring countries continue to affect regional aviation and international travel.
Under the renewed restrictions, all Indian commercial airlines and military aircraft remain barred from entering Pakistani airspace. The ban also applies to aircraft leased by Indian companies, privately owned planes belonging to Indian citizens, and flights operated or managed by Indian entities.
Pakistan first closed its airspace to Indian aircraft on April 23 last year after relations between the two countries sharply deteriorated. Since then, Indian airlines have been forced to avoid Pakistani skies while operating westbound international flights.
The closure has created major challenges for Indian carriers flying to Europe, the Middle East, and North America. Without access to the shorter routes through Pakistan, airlines must take longer alternative paths, increasing fuel consumption, operational expenses, and overall travel time for passengers.
Industry experts believe the continued restrictions could place additional financial pressure on airlines already dealing with rising fuel costs and intense competition. Passengers may also experience higher ticket prices and longer journey durations on several international routes.
The extension reflects the fragile state of diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan, where political disputes often spill over into trade, transport, and travel sectors. While aviation authorities continue to manage operations through alternate routes, the prolonged airspace closure remains a reminder of how geopolitical tensions can directly affect ordinary travelers and the global airline industry.
