Pakistan has officially extended its airspace ban on Indian aircraft until January 27, 2026. The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) issued a Notam confirming that no Indian-owned, operated, or leased aircraft, including military flights, are allowed to enter Pakistani airspace during this period. The restriction will remain effective from December 25, 2025, through January 27, 2026.
Background of the Ban
The initial airspace closure was imposed on April 24, 2025, following escalated tensions between Pakistan and India. This decision was a response to India’s suspension of the Indus Water Treaty and related developments after the Pahalgam attack in Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir. In retaliation, India closed its airspace to Pakistani airlines on April 30, 2025.
Impact on Aviation
The extended closure marks a total of 210 days of restricted airspace for Indian aircraft. Indian airlines continue to face significant operational and financial losses due to this limitation. Conversely, Pakistani aviation has experienced minimal disruption, demonstrating a more resilient operational structure amid the restrictions.
Historical Context
Pakistan has enforced airspace bans on Indian airlines in the past during major crises. Previous closures occurred during the 1999 Kargil conflict and the 2019 Pulwama crisis. In both cases, Indian aviation suffered more extensive disruptions than Pakistan.
Regional Security and Military Context
The airspace restriction follows heightened military tensions between the two nuclear-armed nations. In May 2025, India conducted attacks on several Pakistani cities. Pakistan responded with a retaliatory operation, named “Operation Bunyanum Marsoos,” targeting multiple Indian military positions. The conflict saw Pakistan down seven Indian fighter jets, including three Rafales, and several drones. A ceasefire was reached on May 10, 2025, facilitated by the United States.
The PAA’s latest Notam reaffirms Pakistan’s decision to continue restricting Indian flights for security and political reasons. The ban underscores the ongoing complexity in India-Pakistan relations and highlights the significant impact such measures have on commercial aviation.
