Pakistan has extended its airspace closure for Indian civilian and military aircraft until March 23, 2026. The decision was confirmed through a new NOTAM issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority.
The restriction was first imposed on April 23, 2025. Since then, the airspace closure has remained in effect for all Indian passenger and military flights. Officials said the latest extension followed a routine review of the regional security situation.
Authorities stated that the airspace closure will continue until further notice. The move has had a major impact on Indian airlines. Carriers have been forced to take longer routes to avoid Pakistani airspace.
Industry estimates suggest that rerouting has cost Indian airlines billions of rupees. The longer routes have increased fuel usage and operational expenses. Flight times have also risen significantly.
Air India, which operates a large international network, has been among the hardest hit. According to a company document reviewed by Reuters, the airline has seen fuel costs rise by up to 29 percent. Some long-haul journeys have become up to three hours longer due to the airspace closure.
In response to mounting costs, Air India reportedly requested the Indian government to approach China for access to a sensitive military airspace zone in Xinjiang. The aim was to shorten flight routes and reduce expenses. This request came shortly after direct India-China flights resumed following a five-year pause caused by border tensions.
Air India has also been working to rebuild its international operations after a London-bound Boeing 787 Dreamliner crashed in Gujarat in June, killing 260 people. The crash forced temporary flight reductions for safety checks.
However, efforts to restore normal operations are complicated by the ongoing airspace closure. Diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan have contributed to the continued restrictions.
The extended airspace closure is expected to keep affecting airline operations and costs in the coming months. Airlines will likely continue adjusting flight paths while monitoring regional developments.
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