Pakistan Extends Airspace Ban on Indian Aircraft Until August 24

Pakistan has once again extended its ban on Indian aircraft using its airspace, pushing the restriction until 4:59 AM on August 24, according to a statement released late Friday by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA). This marks the third consecutive extension of the restriction, which was initially implemented on April 24.

The ongoing ban stems from escalated tensions between the two South Asian neighbors following a deadly attack in India-administered Kashmir earlier this year that claimed the lives of 26 tourists. India accused Pakistan of supporting the assailants, a claim Islamabad has strongly denied. Pakistan has instead called for an independent international investigation into the incident.

The initial closure of airspace was part of a broader set of retaliatory measures taken by both countries after the Kashmir attack. The situation worsened in May when the two nations were briefly involved in a four-day military standoff, further straining diplomatic relations.

“All aircraft operated by Indian airlines will not be able to use Pakistani airspace,” the PAA confirmed in its statement. The restriction applies not only to commercial flights but also to Indian-owned or -leased civil and military aircraft.

The repeated extensions of the airspace ban have significantly disrupted Indian airline operations, particularly for long-haul flights to Europe and North America. Carriers such as Air India have had to reroute planes, resulting in longer flight durations, increased fuel consumption, and higher operating costs.

In a statement earlier this year, Air India estimated the additional financial burden due to rerouting could amount to nearly $600 million annually. The airline has requested support from the Indian government to help absorb these unexpected expenses.