India and Pakistan Extend Mutual Airspace Closures
India has extended the closure of its airspace to aircraft registered, operated, or leased by Pakistan until September 24. Pakistan has reciprocated by extending its own airspace ban for Indian aircraft for the same period. The restrictions were first imposed by India on April 30 following the Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 people. The move, part of a series of measures against Pakistan, affects both commercial and military flights and reflects ongoing high tensions between the two nations.
Unpacked:
The Pahalgam terror attack occurred on April 22, 2025, when militants killed 26 civilians, mostly tourists, in Indian-administered Kashmir. India accused Pakistan-based groups of orchestrating the attack, while Pakistan denied involvement, leading to heightened political and military tensions between the two countries.
The closures force airlines to reroute flights, adding 70–90 minutes to journeys between India and destinations in Central Asia, Europe, and North America. This results in higher fuel costs, potential additional refueling stops, longer travel times, and sometimes suspended routes, especially affecting westbound flights from northern India.
Yes, airspace closures have recurred during major conflicts, such as after the Kargil conflict (1999), the 2001 Parliament attack, and the 2019 Balakot airstrikes. These closures have been used as strategic tools and have sometimes lasted several months, causing significant disruptions to aviation.
India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty and revoked most visas for Pakistani nationals, while Pakistan suspended all trade with India, including through third countries. Both countries have also engaged in retaliatory military strikes and diplomatic downgrades following the escalation in 2025.