In a major development that could heighten regional tensions, Pakistan has officially closed its airspace to all Indian aircraft. The Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) of Pakistan issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), declaring that Indian flights are prohibited from entering Pakistani airspace for a duration of one month. The move is seen as a strong response to recent water-related actions by India, further straining bilateral relations.
The closure, effective from 6:00 PM local time, has already caused significant disruption to Indian airlines and international air travel routes. Several Indian flights were forced to divert mid-route, leading to emergency landings and significant delays for passengers and airlines alike. IndiGo and Air India, two of India’s largest carriers, were particularly affected.
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IndiGo flight 6E1428, operating between Sharjah and Amritsar, was rerouted over the Gulf of Oman and landed at Ahmedabad Airport for refueling after being denied entry near Turbat. Air India’s international operations also faced complications. Flight AI190 from Toronto to India was diverted to Copenhagen for refueling, while AI148 from Paris to New Delhi landed in Abu Dhabi, and AI162 from London was similarly redirected.
Other disruptions included the cancellation of IndiGo flights 6E1801 to Almaty and 6E1805 to Tashkent. IndiGo’s 6E1807 from Delhi to Tbilisi was rerouted to Ahmedabad. Additionally, IndiGo flight 6E9526 from Delhi to Sharjah and Air India Express flight IX145 from Delhi to Bahrain were forced to change course.
This unexpected airspace restriction by Pakistan not only impacts flight schedules but also presents logistical challenges and financial burdens for Indian airlines, which must now plan alternative routes. Aviation experts predict prolonged delays, increased fuel costs, and potential fare hikes for passengers as airlines adjust to the new restrictions.
As diplomatic channels remain tense, the closure of Pakistani airspace marks a serious escalation in the ongoing friction between the two neighboring countries, with broader implications for regional stability and international air travel.
