ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has extended its airspace ban on India until December 23. Officials issued a fresh NOTAM that continues restrictions first imposed on April 23, 2025. The Pakistan Airports Authority confirmed that the ban applies to all India-registered, owned, operated, or leased aircraft. The ban includes commercial flights and military operations. The NOTAM states that Indian aircraft will remain barred from Pakistani airspace during the extended period.
Indian Airlines Face Higher Costs and Longer Routes
The continuing suspension has forced Indian carriers to adopt longer routes. Airlines now operate through alternate air corridors to bypass Pakistan. These extended routes have increased fuel consumption and triggered significant operational delays. Industry sources report heavy financial losses for Indian carriers. The losses reportedly reach billions of rupees due to sustained operational disruptions. Authorities in Islamabad have not indicated when the airspace may reopen.
Air India Seeks Access to Chinese Airspace
Air India has begun lobbying for relief as costs continue to surge. According to Reuters, the airline seeks permission to use a sensitive military airspace zone in Xinjiang. The request aims to shorten major long-haul routes affected by Pakistan’s ban. This appeal to Indian officials came weeks after India and China resumed direct flights. The resumption followed a five-year pause linked to a border clash.
Fuel Costs Increase Sharpens Operational Strain
Air India’s internal document highlights severe financial pressure. The document states that fuel expenses have risen by up to 29% on key routes. It also notes that travel times have increased by nearly three hours on some flights. The airline has asked the Indian government to request China’s approval for alternate routing. The plea includes requests for emergency access to airports in Hotan, Kashgar, and Urumqi. These routes would support faster connections to the United States, Canada, and Europe. The document stresses that securing the Hotan route remains a strategic necessity. Air India argues that its long-haul network faces critical operational and financial challenges.
China Responds to Request
China’s foreign ministry said it was unaware of the proposal. The ministry referred Reuters to the “relevant authorities” for further information. No additional comment has yet emerged from Beijing.
