Following the Pahalgam terrorist attack, India's airspace ban on Pakistan-registered aircraft has been extended. The new NOTAM order will remain in effect until October 23, 11:59 PM. Pakistan has also maintained the same restriction on Indian aircraft.
Airspace Ban for Pakistan: The Indian government has once again announced the extension of the ban on its airspace for Pakistani aircraft. Under this order, all Pakistani aircraft, whether civil or military, will not be able to enter Indian airspace until October 24. India has officially issued a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) in this regard, clearly stating that no Pakistan-registered aircraft can use Indian airspace. This decision was taken after a terrorist attack that shook the nation and has since maintained continuous tension between the two countries.
Decision taken after the Pahalgam terrorist attack
The entire matter originated from a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. The attack on April 22 resulted in the deaths of 26 innocent civilians. This incident shook the entire nation, and subsequently, the Indian government immediately took steps to close its airspace for Pakistani aircraft. This order came into effect on April 30 and has been extended multiple times since then. Each time, after reviewing the situation, the deadline has been pushed forward.
Order to remain in effect until the night of October 23
The latest NOTAM issued by India clarifies that this restriction will continue until October 23, 11:59 PM. This means that, according to Indian Standard Time, the ban will remain effective until October 24, 5:29 AM. During this period, no Pakistan-registered aircraft, whether operating a civil flight or on a military mission, will be able to use Indian airspace. Airline companies have already been informed about this order so they can plan their flights accordingly.
Pakistan also imposed restrictions
In response to India's move, Pakistan also closed its airspace for Indian aircraft. Pakistan announced that Indian aircraft would also not be able to enter its airspace until October 24. Thus, this mutual restriction on airspace between the two countries continues. The orders issued by both India and Pakistan clearly indicate that both governments are currently adhering to their respective decisions and are repeatedly extending the duration of the ban.
Impact on flights and growing challenges
The closure of airspace is clearly impacting airlines in both countries. Indian airlines are forced to take longer routes due to their inability to use Pakistani airspace. Many international flights are having to change their routes, which increases flight duration. Longer travel times result in additional fuel expenses. This can directly affect airline costs and passenger ticket prices. This is why the situation has become operationally challenging for airline companies.
Restrictions being continuously extended
This restriction is not being imposed for the first time. The order has been continuously in effect since April 30 and has been extended multiple times. Each time, a new deadline is set, and then, after assessing the situation, its duration is further extended. Under the latest order, this ban will now continue until October 24. However, it is not yet clear whether India and Pakistan will extend this ban beyond October 24 or if there will be any change in the situation.
