Pakistan Prolongs Ban on Indian Aircraft Until June 23

Pakistan has extended its ban on Indian aircraft using its airspace until June 23, the Pakistan Airports Authority said in a new NOTAM issued on May 19. 

The notice applies to Indian-registered commercial planes, military aircraft, and planes owned or leased by Indian individuals. This makes the restriction wider than before. Officials closed airspace to Indian flights on April 24, 2025. This happened because regional tensions were rising. Since then, authorities have renewed the ban several times through NOTAMs. Aviation regulators use such notices to manage air traffic and protect security.

Indian carriers must take longer alternate routes for westbound and international flights. These detours increase fuel use and flight time and raise operating costs. Airlines also face scheduling challenges and disruptions to cargo plans. Passengers might face longer journeys and higher ticket prices on these routes.

Analysts point out that Pakistan has set similar limits during past diplomatic tensions. This includes actions taken after the 2019 escalation. Those earlier closures also disrupted regional flight connections and hit Indian carriers’ operations. The new extension will boost demand for long-haul services. This includes routes to Europe, North America, and the Middle East. Airlines need to revise flight plans, crew schedules, and fuel calculations. They might also take different air routes. These can be busy and less efficient.