Pakistan has extended its restriction on Indian aircraft using its airspace for another month, keeping the ban in place until September 24.
The latest decision was announced through a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority. The extension comes just days before the existing restriction was scheduled to end on August 23.
According to the new notice, the restriction will continue from 10:15 am on August 23 until 4:59 am on September 24, unless Pakistan changes or withdraws the order earlier.
Which Indian Aircraft Are Banned?
The restriction is not limited to aircraft owned directly by Indian airlines.
It covers:
- Aircraft registered in India
- Aircraft operated by Indian airlines
- Aircraft leased by Indian airlines or operators
- Indian military aircraft
The restriction applies across Pakistan’s two Flight Information Regions (FIRs) — Karachi and Lahore.
In simple terms, Indian aircraft cannot use the affected Pakistani airspace while the restriction remains active.
Why Does The Ban Matter For Airlines?
Pakistan’s airspace is an important part of some international flight routes connecting India with destinations farther west.
When airlines cannot fly through Pakistani airspace, they may have to take longer alternative routes.
This can result in:
- Longer flight times
- Higher fuel consumption
- Increased operating costs
- Changes to flight schedules
- Longer journeys for passengers
The financial impact can be particularly significant for airlines operating frequent international services.
India Also Restricts Pakistani Aircraft
The latest Pakistani decision comes amid continuing tensions between India and Pakistan.
Both countries introduced restrictions on each other’s aircraft following the April 2025 Pahalgam terror attack, in which 26 people were killed.
Pakistan subsequently stopped Indian aircraft from using its airspace, while India imposed reciprocal restrictions on Pakistani-registered aircraft, airlines and military flights.
The restrictions have been extended several times since they were first introduced.
Airspace Restrictions Continue Amid India-Pakistan Tensions
The repeated extensions show that the restrictions remain linked to the broader tensions between the two countries.
For airlines, the continued restrictions mean that some flights have to operate using alternative air routes, potentially increasing both travel time and costs.
With Pakistan’s latest extension, its restriction on Indian aircraft will remain in effect until September 24, unless Islamabad changes the order before that date.
The continuation of the ban also means that airlines and passengers will have to deal with the impact of the restrictions for at least another month.
