India Extends Airspace Closure for Pakistani Aircraft Until October 24 Amid Ongoing Tensions

Reciprocal Airspace Restrictions Extended

India has announced the extension of its airspace closure for Pakistani civilian and military aircraft until October 24, 2025. This decision comes as a reciprocal measure, following Pakistan's similar action to keep its airspace closed for Indian aircraft. The mutual restrictions, which began in April 2025, have now entered their sixth month, reflecting persistent geopolitical tensions between the two nations.

Origin of the Ban: The Pahalgam Attack

The current airspace closures were first implemented in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025, which resulted in the deaths of 26 people. Pakistan initiated its airspace ban for Indian aircraft on April 24, 2025, with India responding by closing its airspace for Pakistani planes starting April 30, 2025. Since then, both countries have been extending these bans on a monthly basis. According to India's fresh Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued on September 23, 2025, Pakistani-registered planes and aircraft owned, operated, or leased by Pakistani airlines, including military flights, are prohibited from entering Indian airspace until 5:30 am IST on October 24, 2025.

Significant Impact on Indian Airlines

The prolonged airspace restrictions have created substantial operational and financial challenges for Indian carriers. Approximately 800 weekly flights by Indian airlines are affected, particularly those originating from North India and destined for West Asia, Europe, the UK, and North America. These flights are now compelled to take significantly longer routes, leading to increased flight durations ranging from 15 minutes to several hours, depending on the destination. This, in turn, results in higher fuel consumption and escalated operational costs for airlines.

For instance, long-haul flights from Delhi to North America face additions of 1.2 to 2.5 hours. A similar airspace closure in 2019 cost Indian carriers an estimated ₹700 crore. Air India, a major operator of west-bound international flights, has estimated that the current closure could cost it around $600 million annually. In contrast, the impact on Pakistani airlines has been described as minimal due to their limited international operations.

Ongoing Geopolitical Tensions

The continued airspace closures underscore the strained relations between India and Pakistan. While the immediate trigger was the Pahalgam terror attack, the reciprocal bans are a manifestation of broader geopolitical tensions. The situation highlights the vulnerability of civil aviation to such disputes, as airlines and passengers bear the brunt of the extended restrictions.