Asian – Dispatch

Latest NOTAM bars Indian airlines, military flights and India-linked aircraft from Pakistani airspace as aviation curbs continue.

Pakistan has extended the closure of its airspace for Indian aircraft and airlines until June 24, according to a fresh Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA).

The new NOTAM states that Pakistani airspace will remain unavailable until 4:59am on June 24 for all aircraft registered in India, as well as planes operated, owned or leased by Indian airlines and operators. The restriction also covers Indian military aircraft.

The development marks a continuation of existing aviation restrictions between the two countries. A similar NOTAM issued last month had extended the curbs until May 24.

The restrictions have previously disrupted Indian carriers operating international routes through Pakistani airspace. Reuters reported on April 25 last year that airlines including Air India and IndiGo were forced to reroute flights, resulting in longer travel times and higher fuel costs, after Pakistan shut its airspace amid tensions following a deadly attack in Illegally Indian Occupied Jammu and Kashmir.

Pakistan had also closed its airspace to Indian aircraft in 2019 for nearly five months. Indian authorities later said the move caused losses of at least $64 million to Air India, IndiGo and other airlines due to operational disruptions and additional fuel expenses.

Source: Profit Pakistan