India strikes back, shuts airspace to Pakistan flights following Pahalgam terror attack
New Delhi: India on Wednesday closed its airspace for flights operated by Pakistan airlines in a fresh retaliatory move amid escalating tensions with the neighbouring country following the Pahalgam terror attack.
The Indian airspace will not be available for the aircraft registered in Pakistan as well as for planes operated, owned or leased by Pakistan airlines and operators. Also, the ban will be applicable for the military aircraft of Pakistan, a senior government official said.
A Notice To Airmen (NOTAM) was issued by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) on Wednesday evening in this regard and it will be applicable till May 23.
According to the official, the ban will come into force from 12 am on Thursday.
Generally, NOTAM is a notice having essential information for people involved in flight operations.
The latest move, part of various measures taken by the government against Pakistan in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people, comes a week after Pakistan closed its airspace for Indian carriers.
Impact on air travel and economy
The ongoing airspace closures have serious implications for international flights. Indian carriers, including Air India and IndiGo, are now forced to reroute their flights around Pakistan’s airspace, resulting in longer travel times and increased fuel costs. For example, flights from San Francisco to Delhi now require fuel stops, adding up to four extra hours to the journey due to the diversion.
Financially, both countries are suffering significant losses. Indian airlines are estimated to incur Rs 307 crore in additional costs every month as a result of the longer flight durations and rerouting. Meanwhile, Pakistan faces considerable losses in overflight fees and associated revenues.
Diplomatic strain and reactions
The airspace closures are part of a broader diplomatic breakdown between India and Pakistan. India has suspended visa services for Pakistani nationals, while Pakistan has expelled Indian diplomats. Pakistan has also suspended the Simla Agreement, which has been a crucial framework for bilateral relations since 1972.
The escalating tensions have caught the attention of the international community, with both the United Nations and the United States urging restraint. Diplomatic sources suggest that both India and Pakistan are on high alert, with military forces stationed along their borders.
(Agency inputs)