Islamabad — Pakistan has extended the ban on Indian aircraft in its airspace, prolonging restrictions that are set to remain in force until August 24.
The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) announced that the restrictions, which came into effect at 3:20 pm on July 18, will stay valid until 4:59 am on August 24 under Pakistan Standard Time. The ban applies to all aircraft registered in India or leased by Indian authorities and airlines.
Islamabad first closed its airspace to Indian carriers after relations between the two neighbours worsened following the April 22 attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir.
The restrictions have been costly for Indian airlines, forcing them to use longer, more expensive routes to reach destinations in Europe, the Middle East, and North America. Aviation experts say the move has added significant operational costs and flight delays, impacting both carriers and passengers.
The extension reflects continuing strain in ties between the two nuclear-armed rivals, with no sign yet of a breakthrough on reopening the skies.
