Pakistan Extends Airspace Ban on Indian Flights Till October 24
What Happened
Pakistan has extended its ban on Indian aircraft using its airspace by another month, with the restrictions now remaining in force until October 24, 2026. According to a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority, the ban applies to all Indian-registered aircraft and aircraft operated, owned, or leased by Indian airlines, including military flights. The restrictions cover both the Karachi and Lahore flight information regions.
Key Takeaways
The extended closure means Indian airlines will continue using longer alternate routes for flights to destinations in Europe, West Asia, and parts of Central Asia, increasing fuel consumption and operational costs. The airspace restrictions were first imposed after the Pahalgam terror attack in April 2025 and have been repeatedly extended amid strained India-Pakistan relations.