Pakistan Extends Airspace Ban for Indian Aircraft Until August 24 — Here's What You Need to Know

In a significant geopolitical development, Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has officially extended its airspace ban for Indian-registered aircraft until August 24, 2025, 4:59 AM. This decision, announced through a fresh NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) issued on Friday, continues the ongoing airspace restrictions first implemented in April 2025.

What Does the Airspace Ban Mean?

The airspace closure means that no Indian-owned, operated, or leased aircraft — whether civilian or milit@ry — are allowed to enter Pakistani airspace until the specified time.

This includes:

• Indian commercial airlines

• Private jets registered in India

• Indian milit@ry flights

• Aircraft leased by Indian operators

Airlines are now required to reroute flights, which may result in longer flight times, increased operational costs, and schedule disruptions, especially for flights between India and destinations in the Middle East, Central Asia, or Europe.

Why Was the Airspace Closed?

The original ban was imposed on April 24, 2025, as a retaliatory measure after India announced a suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) — a long-standing water-sharing agreement between the two nations, originally brokered by the World Bank in 1960.

Pakistan has considered the suspension of IWT a serious breach of international norms and responded with strategic countermeasures, including this airspace closure for Indian aviation.

What Is the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT)?

The Indus Waters Treaty is a key water-distribution agreement signed between India and Pakistan in 1960. It allocates usage of the Indus River system and is widely considered a cornerstone of peacekeeping efforts in South Asia.

India’s suspension of the treaty in 2025 — citing national security concerns and cross-border tensions — has sparked international concerns over water rights, regional stability, and diplomacy.

Impact on Regional Air Travel

This airspace restriction has:

• Forced airlines like Air India and Vistara to replan routes toward Europe and Central Asia.

• Increased flight durations by up to 45–60 minutes on some long-haul sectors.

• Caused operational delays and cost implications for carriers and passengers alike.

• Added strain to already tense diplomatic relations between India and Pakistan.

When Will the Airspace Reopen?

As per the latest NOTAM:

• Ban ends on: August 24, 2025, at 4:59 AM

• However, this deadline is subject to extension, depending on how diplomatic discussions progress.

There is currently no confirmation of whether talks between India and Pakistan are underway to address the IWT dispute or resolve the airspace issue.

Global Reactions

International aviation bodies, including IATA (International Air Transport Association), have advised member airlines to:

• Stay updated via NOTAM bulletins.

• Plan detours that comply with current restrictions.

• Inform passengers about possible delays or increased travel times.

Meanwhile, international observers, including the United Nations and World Bank, have quietly urged both countries to return to dialogue — particularly on water-sharing and border stability.

Final Thoughts

The extension of Pakistan's airspace closure for Indian aircraft reflects rising regional tensions and the interconnectedness of politics, diplomacy, and aviation. As August 24 approaches, both passengers and airlines are watching closely to see if the ban will be lifted — or extended further.

Stay Updated

For travelers and aviation professionals, it’s essential to:

• Follow official airline updates

• Check for changes in flight schedules

• Stay informed through aviation NOTAMs and government advisories