Pakistan’s Ban on Indian Airlines, Aircraft from Its Airspace to Enter 10th Month as Closure Extended till Feb 24

Tensions between India and Pakistan have taken another turn in the world of aviation. For nearly ten months, Pakistani airspace has been closed to Indian airlines, and the government has now extended this ban until February 24, 2026. This ongoing restriction highlights the fragile state of relations between the two neighboring countries and its impact on trade, travel, and regional aviation.

Background of the Ban

The ban on Indian aircraft began in May 2025, after political disagreements and security concerns between the two countries. Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) cited “security and national interest” as reasons for the closure of its skies to Indian flights.

Since then, no Indian airlines have been allowed to fly over Pakistan, effectively forcing Indian flights to take longer alternate routes to reach destinations like Dubai, the Middle East, and parts of Europe.

This decision is part of a larger pattern of airspace restrictions in South Asia, where political tensions often spill over into civil aviation.

Impact on Airlines and Passengers

The extended ban has had wide-reaching consequences for both countries.

1. Flight Routes and Fuel Costs

Airlines that usually use Pakistan’s airspace must now take longer detours, often adding 1–2 hours to flight times. This increases fuel consumption and operational costs.

For instance, flights from Mumbai to Dubai now have to navigate over the Arabian Sea and Oman instead of the shorter route across Pakistan. Experts estimate that airlines are spending millions extra on fuel due to this detour each month.

2. Ticket Prices

Passengers are feeling the pinch too. Longer flights mean higher ticket prices, which can affect tourism and business travel. Travelers between India and destinations in Europe or the Middle East have noted price increases of up to 15% since the ban started.

3. Cargo and Trade

The closure also affects cargo flights. Indian exports passing through Pakistan’s airspace face delays and additional costs, especially for time-sensitive goods like pharmaceuticals, perishable foods, and industrial components.

Pakistan’s Perspective

Pakistan has repeatedly stated that the ban is a temporary measure for national security. Officials argue that Indian flights over their airspace could pose risks due to ongoing political disputes, and that rerouting is a small price to pay for safeguarding sovereignty.

The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) has clarified that the ban will remain in effect until conditions are deemed safe. Extending it until February 24, 2026, signals that Pakistan does not anticipate a quick resolution to the issue.

India’s Response

India has expressed disappointment over the ban, emphasizing that airspace restrictions impact ordinary passengers more than governments.

Indian airlines are adjusting by:

Flying longer routes, even if more expensive

Shifting schedules to minimize disruption

Seeking alternative regional air agreements for future safety

While India has called for dialogue, the ban shows that aviation can easily become a political tool in tense situations.

Regional Aviation Implications

The closure of Pakistani airspace to Indian airlines is part of a larger trend in South Asia where political tensions affect international flights. Experts note that:

Airlines must maintain flexibility in route planning

Insurance costs may rise when political risk increases

Neighboring countries like the UAE, Oman, and Iran often see increased air traffic due to rerouted flights

Some analysts predict that if such bans continue, South Asian airlines may invest in longer-range aircraft or develop partnerships to bypass politically sensitive airspace altogether.

How Travelers Can Adapt

For passengers traveling between India and destinations usually overflying Pakistan:

Book flights early to avoid higher fares

Check alternate routes offered by airlines

Prepare for longer flight times by planning connections carefully

Consider nearby international hubs such as Dubai or Abu Dhabi for transit

While inconvenient, most airlines are providing updates and support to help passengers navigate these disruptions.

Economic Consequences

The ban has ripple effects on regional trade and tourism:

Tourism: Fewer direct flights can reduce tourist arrivals, impacting hotels, guides, and local businesses.

Airline revenue: Airlines spend more on fuel and maintenance, and profits are affected.

Trade efficiency: Slower cargo delivery can impact export competitiveness and supply chains.

While neither country has officially quantified the total economic loss, experts estimate hundreds of millions of dollars have been affected since the ban began.

Looking Ahead

The extension of the ban until February 24, 2026, suggests that political tensions are unlikely to ease soon.

Diplomatic talks could help reopen airspace, but only if security assurances are met.

Airlines may continue to invest in fuel-efficient long-range aircraft or alternate regional routes.

Passengers and businesses will need to adapt to higher costs and longer travel times.

Ultimately, this situation underscores how politics and aviation are deeply intertwined in South Asia. The skies above India and Pakistan are not just pathways for planes — they are a reflection of complex political realities on the ground.

Conclusion

The Pakistan-India airspace ban entering its tenth month highlights the fragile nature of aviation amid political disputes. With the closure now extended until February 24, 2026, both countries face challenges in terms of economics, travel, and trade.

While safety and national security remain key concerns, ordinary travelers and airlines bear the brunt of these restrictions.

This situation serves as a reminder that airspace is more than a corridor for planes — it is a sensitive and strategic asset, and political tensions can make the skies far from friendly.

As the situation develops, passengers, airlines, and policymakers alike will be watching closely to see when and how the closure will finally end.