Pakistan extends ban on Indian aircraft flights until October 24 — Dawn
Pakistan has extended its ban on the use of its airspace by aircraft registered in India, as well as aircraft operated, owned or leased by Indian airlines or operators. The restriction will remain in force until 04:59 on October 24, 2026, Dawn reports.
Terms of the new notice
The Pakistan Airports Authority issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), which took effect at 10:45 on Wednesday. The ban also applies to military flights.
The document covers Pakistan’s two flight information regions — Karachi (OPKR) and Lahore (OPLR). The previous restriction was due to expire on September 24.
Pakistan has repeatedly extended the ban, forcing Indian air carriers to use longer and more expensive routes.
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Background of the restrictions
India and Pakistan closed their airspace to each other’s airlines in late April 2025, when tensions between the countries escalated after a deadly attack in Pahalgam. India said Islamabad was involved in the attack, while Pakistan denied any involvement and offered to conduct a neutral investigation.
In May, an aerial battle took place between the two nuclear-armed states. Pakistan said it had shot down seven Indian fighter jets.
Impact on Air India
According to a document submitted to Indian officials in October last year, Air India’s fuel costs rose by up to 29%, while flight times on some long-haul routes increased by up to three hours. The airline estimated the annual impact of Pakistan’s airspace closure on pre-tax profit at $455 million. Its loss for the 2024–2025 financial year amounted to $439 million.
