Pakistan has extended the Pakistan airspace ban on Indian aircraft until August 24, according to a fresh Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA). The decision keeps Indian-registered aircraft and planes operated, owned, or leased by Indian airlines and operators from using Pakistani airspace. The restriction also applies to Indian military aircraft and will remain effective until 11:59 pm Pakistan Standard Time on August 24.
The latest extension continues an aviation restriction that has remained in place since heightened tensions between Pakistan and India following the 2025 Pahalgam attack in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). Since its initial implementation, the airspace closure has been renewed several times, reflecting the ongoing strain in bilateral relations.
According to the PAA’s NOTAM, all affected Indian commercial and military aircraft will continue to be barred from entering Pakistan’s airspace throughout the validity period. Aviation authorities have not announced any changes to the scope of the restriction, indicating that the existing conditions remain unchanged.
The Pakistan airspace ban on Indian aircraft has significantly affected Indian airlines operating long-haul international flights, particularly westbound services. Carriers have been forced to adopt alternative flight paths that bypass Pakistani airspace, resulting in longer travel distances.
Industry analysts say these extended routes increase fuel consumption, flight duration, and operational expenses for Indian airlines. Higher operating costs can also affect airline scheduling and overall efficiency, especially on routes connecting India with Europe, the Middle East, and North America.
Pakistan had previously extended the same restriction until July 24. The new NOTAM replaces the earlier deadline and ensures that the Pakistan airspace ban on Indian aircraft will remain in effect for another month unless aviation authorities issue a revised directive before its expiry.
The latest decision underscores that aviation restrictions remain linked to broader regional tensions. While no further policy changes have been announced, airlines and aviation stakeholders are expected to continue monitoring official notifications from the Pakistan Airports Authority regarding any future updates to the Pakistan airspace ban on Indian aircraft.
