ISLAMABAD ( The COW News Digital) Pakistan has extended the closure of its airspace for Indian aircraft for another month amid continued tensions between the two neighboring countries. According to the Pakistan Airports Authority, the ban on Indian aircraft will now remain in effect until October 23, 2025.
A new NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) was issued, confirming the extension of restrictions. The ban applies to all aircraft owned, operated, or leased by Indian airlines or operators. This means Indian commercial and charter flights will continue to be barred from entering Pakistani airspace for the next 30 days.
The restriction was first imposed on April 23, 2025, following heightened diplomatic and security tensions between Pakistan and India. Since then, both countries have reciprocated by closing their airspace to each other’s aircraft, causing disruptions to flight operations in the region.
Aviation authorities have stated that the decision remains in line with national security concerns and regional developments. The measure has forced several international carriers flying between India and destinations in Europe, the Middle East, and North America to reroute their flights, leading to longer travel times and higher operational costs.
Analysts say the continued airspace restrictions highlight the deep strain in bilateral relations, which have been marked by military and diplomatic standoffs over the past several months. Travel industry experts note that the extended closure also affects trade and tourism, putting additional economic pressure on both sides.
The situation is particularly significant given the upcoming religious events that usually see cross-border travel. Earlier, reports emerged that Indian authorities had stopped Sikh pilgrims from visiting Pakistan for Baba Guru Nanak’s birth anniversary celebrations, further straining ties.
Officials in Pakistan have stated that the airspace will remain closed until further review and that the government will monitor the situation closely before making any changes. There has been no official response from New Delhi regarding Pakistan’s latest extension.
Regional observers warn that prolonged airspace closures could escalate diplomatic tensions further if both countries fail to engage in dialogue. However, they also point out that such restrictions have historically been lifted once relations improve or when urgent negotiations take place between the two sides.
