Pakistan extends airspace ban on Indian aircraft

Pakistan has announced the continuation of its airspace ban on Indian aircraft, extending the restriction until October 24, 2026. The notification issued stated that "Pakistan airspace not available for Indian registered aircraft and aircraft operated/owned or leased by Indian airlines/operators, including military flights." This decision comes in the wake of heightened tensions between the two nations, sparked by the Pahalgam attack in Indian illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir in 2025.

The airspace restrictions have already incurred significant financial costs for Indian airlines, who are forced to navigate around Pakistan's airspace, leading to increased flight times and fuel expenses on routes between India and destinations across Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia. This restriction has been extended multiple times since its initial imposition, with the latest extension suggesting the ban will endure for another month.

Pakistan's previous extension of the ban on Indian-registered aircraft, which lasted until September 24, underscores the ongoing disputes and the ongoing impact of these restrictions on Indian aviation.