India has extended its restrictions on Pakistani flights operating in Indian airspace until August 24, continuing a ban that has been in place for several months now. The decision, confirmed by officials from India’s civil aviation authority on Tuesday, affects flights that either originate from or are bound for Pakistan and typically require clearance through Indian air corridors.
The ban, which has been routinely reviewed and extended since its initial enforcement, remains a result of heightened security sensitivities and diplomatic tension between the two countries. Though specific reasons for the latest extension were not officially disclosed, civil aviation authorities cited “prevailing geopolitical concerns” and “operational security reviews” as key factors behind the decision.
This restriction has forced airlines operating between Pakistan and other parts of the world to reroute their flights, leading to longer travel times and increased operational costs. In particular, Pakistani carriers flying to Southeast Asia and the Middle East via western routes have had to navigate through alternative air corridors, often involving airspace over Iran or Central Asia, depending on the destination.
Indian airspace is strategically critical due to its geographical location and serves as a major conduit for international commercial aviation. While not a complete airspace closure, the ongoing ban applies to designated corridors typically used by Pakistan-based carriers or flights en route to Pakistan from foreign destinations.
India’s move comes even as broader regional airspace dynamics remain tense, particularly amid recent military developments and strained diplomatic ties in South Asia. The Indian government has not issued any public statement suggesting when or under what circumstances the restrictions might be lifted.
The next official review of the airspace restriction is expected closer to the newly announced deadline of August 24.
