Pakistan Extends Airspace Restrictions on Indian Aircraft Until October 24
Pakistan has extended its restrictions on Indian aircraft using the country’s airspace until October 24, 2026, according to a new Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA).
The previous extension was scheduled to expire on September 24. The latest notice continues the restriction for another month.
Which Aircraft Are Covered by the Restriction?
According to the PAA notice, Pakistani airspace remains unavailable to Indian-registered aircraft, as well as aircraft owned, operated or leased by Indian airlines and operators.
The restriction also covers Indian military flights.
The latest extension applies to both of Pakistan’s flight information regions: Karachi (OPKR) and Lahore (OPLR).
Restriction Extended Several Times
Pakistan and India have maintained restrictions on each other’s airlines since tensions between the two countries escalated in April 2025.
Pakistan has subsequently extended its airspace restrictions several times. In August 2026, the PAA extended the restriction until September 24 before issuing the latest extension.
The continuing restriction means Indian airlines using routes that would normally cross Pakistani airspace have had to use alternative flight paths.
Impact on Indian Airlines
The closure has affected the operating costs and travel times of Indian carriers, particularly on long-haul international routes.
Earlier reports cited by Dawn said Air India had experienced higher fuel expenses and longer journey times on some routes because of the additional flying distance.
The airline had also estimated a significant annual impact on its finances from the continued closure of Pakistani airspace.
Background of the Airspace Restrictions
The restrictions were introduced in April 2025 amid a sharp deterioration in relations between Pakistan and India following the Pahalgam attack in Indian-administered Kashmir.
India alleged Pakistani involvement, a claim Pakistan denied, while Islamabad offered a neutral investigation. Tensions later escalated into military hostilities between the two countries in May 2025.
Since then, Pakistan has repeatedly renewed the airspace restriction through NOTAMs issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority.
For now, the latest order keeps the restriction in place until October 24, 2026.
