India-Pakistan Airspace Restrictions Enter Fifth Month
India has extended a NOTAM prohibiting Pakistani airlines and aircraft from entering Indian airspace for another month, now valid until the morning of September 24. This decision came two days after Pakistan extended its closure of airspace to Indian aircraft. As a result, airspace bans between the two neighbouring countries have now entered their fifth month.
Following the Pahalgam terrorist attack in April, Pakistan closed its airspace on April 24, and India imposed reciprocal restrictions on Pakistani aircraft and airlines on April 30. Both countries extend these airspace closure decisions monthly through NOTAMs. The latest NOTAM issued by India states that the airspace will remain closed until 05:29 on September 24.
Indian Airlines Operationally Affected
The inability to use Pakistani airspace has impacted approximately 800 weekly international flights operated by Indian airlines. Flights from northern India to West Asia, the Caucasus, Europe, the United Kingdom, and eastern North America have had to take longer routes. This has resulted in delays ranging from 15 minutes to several hours, increased fuel consumption, and challenges for crew and flight planning.
On the other hand, the impact of India closing its airspace to Pakistani aircraft has been limited, as Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has a small international presence. Only about six PIA flights per week would normally pass through Indian airspace.
High Costs for Air India and Other Indian Carriers
The situation is far more significant for Indian carriers. Air India operates flights to West Asia, Europe, the UK, and North America. IndiGo flies to West Asia, Turkey, the Caucasus, and Central Asia. Flights from Delhi to Central Asia have now been suspended. Air India Express, Akasa Air, and SpiceJet also serve West Asia.
Experts estimate that these airspace restrictions will affect roughly 640 weekly flights from Indira Gandhi International Airport. Additionally, some ultra-long-haul flights from Mumbai are affected due to rerouted paths.
India-Pakistan airspace restrictions previously caused losses of approximately 700 crore rupees for Indian airlines in 2019. Air India estimates that the current extensions could cost around $600 million annually.
