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2d ago

Pakistan Shuts Airspace to Indian Airlines Following Pahalgam Attack

Indian carriers reroute flights, warning of increased costs and delays as diplomatic tensions escalate between the two nations.

Air India, IndiGo flights impacted by Pakistan airspace closure.
The DGCA asked the airlines to ensure that all the passengers are informed about the change in routing due to airspace restrictions.
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Regular diplomatic flare-ups between the two nations over decades have prevented close economic ties

Overview

  • Pakistan's airspace closure, effective April 24 to May 23, blocks all Indian-registered or operated aircraft, including military flights.
  • Indian airlines like Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet are rerouting flights to Europe, North America, and the Middle East, leading to longer travel times and higher fuel consumption.
  • Airlines anticipate an 8–12% rise in airfares due to increased operational costs and payload limitations caused by extended routes.
  • India has responded to the Pahalgam terror attack by suspending the Indus Waters Treaty and scaling down diplomatic ties with Pakistan.
  • The situation recalls the 2019 airspace closure, which lasted five months and cost Indian airlines over Rs 540 crore.