Pakistan extends ban on Indian flights till May 24; airspace curbs continue

New Delhi: Pakistan has extended its ban on Indian aircraft using its airspace until 24 May, prolonging restrictions that have now been in place for more than a year.

The decision follows the closure of airspace after the Pahalgam terror attack in Kashmir on 22 April last year, which claimed 26 lives. Since then, both India and Pakistan have imposed reciprocal airspace restrictions on each other’s airlines and military flights.

According to a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), Pakistan’s airspace will remain closed to all Indian-registered aircraft, including those operated, owned or leased by Indian airlines, as well as military flights. The restriction is effective until 2359 hours (UTC) on 23 May, which corresponds to 0530 hours IST on 24 May, as per the Pakistan Airports Authority.

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The continued closure means Indian airlines will still have to take longer international routes, increasing travel time and operational costs.

On the Indian side, the government has also kept restrictions in place on Pakistani aircraft using Indian airspace until 24 April, with an extension expected. These measures were initially introduced following the same security concerns and have been repeatedly renewed.

A NOTAM is an official aviation notice used to inform pilots and airlines about operational restrictions or safety-related updates.

(PTI)