GUWAHATI: India has closed its airspace to all Pakistan-registered airlines, including military and civilian operators, in a retaliatory measure following the recent terror attack in Pahalgam. The directive, issued via a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), will remain effective until May 23.
ALSO READ: India Bans Instagram Accounts of Mahira Khan, Hania Aamir & Other Pakistani Celebs
The restriction targets all aircraft registered in, operated by, or leased to Pakistani entities. However, international carriers such as Emirates, Qatar Airways, and Turkish Airlines flying out of Pakistan will still be allowed to transit through Indian airspace.
The move comes in response to Pakistan’s earlier ban on Indian overflights, announced last week amid heightened diplomatic tensions triggered by the Pahalgam incident.
India has also suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, closed the Attari border crossing, reduced its diplomatic presence, and expelled Pakistani nationals in a series of retaliatory actions.
As a result of India’s airspace closure, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has been forced to reroute several flights via China to destinations such as Kuala Lumpur, leading to longer routes and increased operational costs.
