In a significant escalation of regional tensions, Pakistan has closed its airspace to Indian airlines, prompting major carriers like Air India and IndiGo to reroute several international flights. The move comes in the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which has further strained ties between the two nuclear-armed neighbors.
The decision was taken during an emergency meeting of Pakistan’s National Security Committee (NSC) chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday. The high-level panel approved immediate retaliatory steps based on recommendations from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, citing India’s “unilateral moves” following the Pahalgam incident.
As a result, Indian airlines flying westward to North America, Europe, and the Middle East are now being forced to take longer detours, leading to increased fuel costs and travel time.
Air India, which operates several long-haul flights over Pakistani airspace, confirmed the rerouting. “Due to the announced restriction of Pakistan airspace for all Indian airlines, it is expected that some Air India flights to or from North America, UK, Europe, and Middle East will take an alternative extended route,” a statement by the airline said.
IMPORTANT UPDATE:
Due to the announced restriction of Pakistan airspace for all Indian airlines, it is expected that some Air India flights to or from North America, UK, Europe, and Middle East will take an alternative extended route. Air India regrets the inconvenience caused…
— Air India (@airindia) April 24, 2025
IndiGo, too, acknowledged disruptions to its operations. “In view of the ongoing situation and Pakistan air space closure, a few international flight schedules may be impacted. We’re working to minimise the inconvenience,” the airline stated in a post on X.
#6ETravelAdvisory: In view of the ongoing situation and Pakistan air space closure, a few international flight schedules may be impacted. We’re working to minimise the inconvenience. Check your flight status https://t.co/ll3K8PwtRV and rebooking options https://t.co/51Q3oUe0lP pic.twitter.com/mdnVObO0ON
— IndiGo (@IndiGo6E) April 24, 2025
