Pakistan has extended the closure of its airspace to Indian aircraft for another month, continuing the restrictions until September 24, 2025. The ban, announced through a new NOTAM, applies to all Indian-registered planes, including leased and military aircraft, preventing them from flying through Pakistani skies.
The closure, which began on April 24, 2025, has now stretched beyond four months and has created major challenges for Indian airlines. Carriers such as Air India, IndiGo, Akasa Air, SpiceJet, and Air India Express have been forced to operate on longer international routes, leading to significant financial strain. Initial calculations showed weekly losses of around ₹77 crore, or more than ₹307 crore per month. Within just 21 days, the combined losses of Indian carriers crossed ₹460 crore.
For Air India, the situation is particularly severe. The airline expects extra costs of nearly $600 million, around ₹5,000 crore, over a year if the ban continues. These costs come mainly from higher fuel consumption, longer flight times, and additional crew expenses.
Passengers have also faced the impact of the closure. Flights that once took direct routes are now being diverted. For example, Air India flights from San Francisco and Toronto have been rerouted through Copenhagen, causing delays of 9 to 10 hours.
The extended ban underscores how regional tensions have not only disrupted commercial aviation but also put enormous pressure on airlines and travelers alike. With no signs of an immediate resolution, Indian carriers may continue to bear heavy financial losses in the coming months.
