Pakistan extends airspace ban for Indian aircraft till September 24
Pakistan has extended its airspace ban for Indian aircraft until September 24, a reciprocal measure following the Pahalgam terrorist attack in April 2025. This ongoing ban, which India also reciprocates, has caused financial difficulties for airlines and increased travel times for passengers. The decision was announced via a NOTAM by the Pakistan Airports Authority, applying to both Karachi and Lahore Flight Information Regions.
Why it matters
The continued airspace restrictions between India and Pakistan highlight ongoing geopolitical tensions and their tangible impact on regional travel and economic activity. It signifies a lack of de-escalation in a sensitive bilateral relationship.
Pakistan, on Wednesday (August 19, 2026) extended the closure of its airspace to Indian aircraft until September 24, according to the country's airports authority.
Pakistan and India imposed matching airspace restrictions on each other's airlines after the Pahalgam terrorist attack in April 2025.
"Pakistan airspace not available for Indian-registered aircraft and aircraft operated or leased by Indian airlines/operators, including military flights,” said a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority.
The decision comes ahead of the expiry of the previous restriction on August 23.
According to the NOTAM, the extension will take effect from 10:15 a.m. on August 23 and will remain in force until 4:59 a.m. on September 24.
As per a Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (PCAA) document from 2022, the country's airspace is divided into two flight information regions (FIRs) — Karachi and Lahore.
The NOTAM applies to both the Karachi and Lahore FIRs.
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