Pakistan has kept its airspace closed to Indian aircraft since April 2025, when tensions between the two countries sharply escalated after an attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir’s Pahalgam.
New Delhi had alleged Islamabad’s involvement in the incident without presenting evidence. Pakistan rejected the accusation and offered to support a neutral investigation.
According to a fresh Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued today, the PAA said Pakistan’s airspace would remain closed to all aircraft registered in India.
The restriction also applies to planes operated, owned, or leased by Indian airlines or operators, including military flights, the Notam added.
The ban covers both of Pakistan’s Flight Information Regions — Karachi and Lahore FIR — as outlined in documentation by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority.
The latest NOTAM was issued just days before the previous restriction was set to expire on March 23.
Pakistan airspace will remain closed to Indian-registered aircraft and those operated, owned, or leased by Indian airlines/operators, including military flights, until early hours of 24 April 2026. #PAA
— Pakistan Airports Authority (@Pk_PAA_Official) March 18, 2026
The continued airspace ban has resulted in significant financial losses for Indian airlines, which are being forced to take longer alternative routes.
These diversions have increased flight times and fuel costs for services between India and destinations in Europe, the Middle East, and Central Asia.