PAA says Pakistani airspace remains closed to all Indian-registered aircraft
An Indian airline Spicejet plane makes final approach to land at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi. PHOTO: AFP
The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) on Tuesday extended restrictions on Indian aircraft using its airspace until June 24.
Pakistan has kept its airspace closed to Indian aircraft since April 2025, when tensions between the two countries rose sharply after an attack on Indian-occupied Jammu and Pahalgam.
New Delhi had alleged Islamabad’s involvement in the incident without providing evidence. Pakistan rejected the accusation and offered to support a neutral investigation.
NOTAM: Airspace ban for Indian aircraft (including military) extended until June 24 at 04:59 am PKT.
— Pakistan Airports Authority (@Pk_PAA_Official) May 19, 2026
According to a new Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued on Wednesday, the authority said Pakistani airspace would remain closed to all Indian-registered aircraft.
The restriction also applies to aircraft operated, owned or leased by Indian airlines or operators, including military flights, the NOTAM added.
It said the ban covered Pakistan’s two flight information regions, Karachi and Lahore, as outlined in Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority documentation.
The latest NOTAM was issued just days before the previous restriction expired on May 24.
The continued airspace ban has led to significant financial losses for Indian airlines, which are forced to take longer alternative routes.
These diversions have increased flight times and fuel costs for services between India and destinations in Europe, the Middle East and Central Asia.
