Pakistan extends airspace ban on Indian aircraft until Nov 24

Pakistan has extended its airspace ban on Indian aircraft for another month, until November 24, according to a Notice to Airmen (Notam) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA).

The restriction, which covers Indian-registered aircraft as well as aircraft owned, operated or leased by Indian airlines and operators, including military flights, continues to force Indian carriers onto longer and more expensive routes.

The previous extension was due to expire on October 24. The latest notice took effect at 7:45pm on Saturday and will remain in force until 4:59am on November 24, 2026.

"Pakistan airspace not available for Indian registered aircraft and aircraft operated/owned or leased by Indian airlines/operators, including military flights," the Notam said.

Pakistan's airspace is divided into two flight information regions (FIRs), Karachi and Lahore, according to a 2022 Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) document. The latest Notam applies to both regions: Karachi (OPKR) and Lahore (OPLR).

India and Pakistan closed their airspaces to each other's airlines in late April 2025, after tensions escalated following a deadly attack in Pahalgam, in India-occupied Kashmir.

On April 24, Pakistan's top brass announced a series of measures, including immediately closing Pakistani airspace to all India-owned or Indian-operated airlines, in response to aggressive moves by New Delhi.

India had alleged, without providing evidence, that Islamabad backed the Pahalgam attack. Pakistan strongly denied involvement and offered to support a neutral investigation.

The two nuclear-armed countries fought their fiercest air battle in May, during which Pakistan said it had downed seven Indian fighter jets.

Pakistan has extended the airspace restriction several times since then, compelling Indian carriers to take longer routes and absorb additional operating costs.