Pakistan has extended its airspace restriction on Indian aircraft flights, pushing the ban closer to completing one year, according to an official Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). The decision means that all Indian-registered, leased, commercial, and military aircraft will remain barred from entering Pakistani airspace until 5:00 AM on May 24, 2026.
Read More: Pakistan extends airspace ban on Indian flights until april
The restriction, enforced by the Pakistan Airports Authority, has been in place since April 24, 2025. It was initially imposed amid escalating diplomatic tensions between Pakistan and India, and has now been extended for another month.
Pakistan has extended its airspace closure for all the Indian registered, owned or operated aircrafts/airlines until 24th May 2026.
— Ihtisham Ul Haq (@iihtishamm) April 21, 2026
The airspace closure has significantly impacted Indian aviation, with airlines reportedly suffering losses worth billions due to longer flight routes and increased operational costs. The ban forces many international flights originating from India to take longer detours, raising fuel consumption and travel time.
The move came after India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, following heightened tensions after an incident in Indian Illegally Occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK). Pakistan rejected the allegations linked to the incident and called for an independent investigation.
In response, India also closed its airspace to Pakistani airlines on April 30, 2025, further intensifying the standoff between the two countries.
Following the escalation, India launched military strikes on multiple Pakistani cities on May 6–7, 2025. In retaliation, Pakistan’s armed forces conducted a large-scale counteroperation named “Operation Bunyanum Marsoos,” targeting several Indian military positions.
During the conflict, Pakistan claimed it shot down multiple Indian aircraft, including advanced fighter jets, and intercepted drones. The hostilities continued for nearly 87 hours before a ceasefire was reached on May 10, 2025, reportedly mediated by the United States.
Read More: Pakistan extends airspace ban on India until Dec 23
Officials note that while Indian aviation has faced significant disruption, the impact on Pakistan’s aviation sector has remained comparatively limited. Similar airspace restrictions were previously imposed during the 1999 Kargil conflict and the 2019 Pulwama crisis.