New Delhi: India on Tuesday banned all Pakistan-registered and Pakistan-operated aircraft from using its airspace, in response to the terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which killed 26 people, mostly tourists.
A Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) issued by Indian authorities states that Indian airspace is closed to all aircraft registered in Pakistan, as well as those operated or leased by Pakistani airlines, including military flights. The ban will remain in force until 11:59 pm UTC on 23 May (5:29 am IST on 24 May), subject to review.
Pakistan shuts its airspace
The decision comes six days after Pakistan shut its airspace to all Indian-owned and operated flights. With both countries now blocking each other’s airlines, international air travel in the region is set for a long-term disruption.
According to data from flight tracking platforms, over 800 weekly flights by Indian carriers from northern cities to destinations in Europe, North America, and the Middle East were already affected by Pakistan’s earlier decision. Airlines have been forced to take longer routes, increasing fuel costs and flight times. The additional cost to Indian airlines is estimated at Rs 77 crore per week.
Pakistan’s carriers are expected to face similar or greater challenges. Flights from Pakistan to Southeast Asia and Oceania will now have to bypass Indian airspace, leading to longer routes and higher operational expenses. Analysts suggest the impact on Pakistan’s financially strained aviation sector could be severe.
Wider set of measures taken by India
The airspace ban is part of a wider set of measures taken by India following the Pahalgam attack. These include placing the Indus Waters Treaty in abeyance, revoking visas issued to Pakistani nationals, expelling Pakistani military diplomatic staff, sealing land borders, and suspending bilateral trade.
India holds Pakistan-based terrorist groups responsible for the Pahalgam attack. Prime Minister Narendra Modi has vowed strong action against those involved.
