India Closes Airspace to All Pakistani Aircraft Amid Tensions

India has closed its airspace to all aircraft operated or leased by Pakistani airlines and operators, escalating tensions with Pakistan following a recent terror attack in Kashmir. The ban, issued under NOTAM G0510/25, took effect on April 30, 2025, at 1830Z and will remain in place until at least May 23.

The move comes in direct response to Pakistan’s earlier decision to bar Indian airlines from its airspace. While the Indian ban is expected to have minimal operational impact on Pakistani carriers, which have limited eastbound service, it further intensifies a growing regional standoff. Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) had already begun rerouting its Kuala Lumpur flights around Indian airspace, increasing flight times by nearly three hours in each direction.

The dispute stems from the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam, located in India-controlled Kashmir. The attack, initially claimed by a Pakistan-based militant group, prompted swift retaliatory measures from India, including the revocation of Pakistani visas, suspension of the Indus Water Treaty, and closure of the land border. Pakistan responded by halting all trade with India and banning overflights by Indian carriers.

While Pakistani airlines face limited disruption due to their smaller global network, Indian carriers have been significantly affected. Air India, for example, has been forced to reroute several North America-bound flights and add European fuel stops, leading to longer flight times and increased operational costs.

The tit-for-tat airspace closures mark a further deterioration in India-Pakistan relations and have raised concerns about broader aviation disruptions in the region.

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Sources: AirGuide Business airguide.info, bing.com, ch-aviation.com