Pakistan has extended its airspace ban on Indian aircraft for an additional month, now effective until October 24, 2025, according to a statement from the Pakistan Aviation Authority (PAA). This marks the sixth consecutive extension of the ban, which was initially imposed in April 2025 following heightened tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbors. The decision, formalized through a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), prohibits all Indian-registered, operated, leased, or military aircraft from entering Pakistani airspace from ground level to unlimited altitude.
Background
The airspace closure was first implemented on April 24, 2025, as part of Pakistan’s retaliatory measures against India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and accusations of Pakistani involvement in the Pahalgam terrorist attack in Indian-administered Kashmir. Pakistan has consistently denied these allegations, labeling them baseless and calling for an impartial international investigation. The situation escalated into a brief but intense military conflict in May 2025, involving missile strikes, drone warfare, and aerial engagements, which concluded with a U.S.-brokered ceasefire on May 10.
Operational Details
The NOTAM specifies that the ban applies comprehensively to all Indian aircraft, including commercial airlines, leased planes, and military flights. The restriction is set to remain in effect from 1:00 PM Pakistan Standard Time (PKT) on September 19, 2025, until approximately 4:59 AM PKT on October 24, 2025. This extension aligns with India’s reciprocal closure of its airspace to Pakistani aircraft, which has also been extended monthly since April 30.
Impact on Aviation and Economics
The prolonged airspace closure has significantly disrupted international flight operations for Indian airlines, particularly those traveling to and from West Asia, Europe, and North America. Carriers like Air India and IndiGo have faced increased flight durations, higher fuel costs, and operational complexities, with Air India estimating annualized losses of up to $600 million if the ban continues. In contrast, Pakistan’s aviation sector has experienced minimal impact due to its limited international flight operations, though the country has forgone substantial revenue from overflight fees.
The Broader Picture
The airspace ban reflects the deepening diplomatic rift between India and Pakistan, with both nations leveraging economic and strategic measures to assert their positions. Pakistan’s steadfast refusal to reopen its airspace underscores its commitment to maintaining pressure on India until underlying issues, such as the Kashmir dispute and allegations of state-sponsored terrorism, are addressed through dialogue. The continued closure also highlights the broader regional instability, which has drawn concern from international actors, including the United States, which played a critical role in de-escalating the May 2025 conflict.