Pakistan extends airspace ban on Indian flights until Sept 24

Which Indian aircraft are covered by the restrictions?

The airspace restrictions apply to Indian-registered airlines and aircraft. They also cover leased aircraft, as well as commercial and military aircraft owned or operated by Indian citizens.

The restrictions prevent aircraft covered by the NOTAM from entering Pakistani airspace. The latest notice extends the existing restrictions without announcing any major changes to their scope.

Restrictions first imposed in April 2025

Pakistan first imposed airspace restrictions on Indian aircraft on April 23, 2025. Since then, the restrictions have been extended through a series of NOTAMs.

The latest extension is the 16th NOTAM issued in connection with the restrictions. With the new notice in place, the ban will continue until September 24 unless Pakistan issues a further extension or changes the existing arrangements.

What is a NOTAM?

A NOTAM, or Notice to Air Missions, is an official aviation notice that provides important information about conditions or restrictions affecting flight operations. Airlines, pilots and aviation authorities use NOTAMs to receive updates about airspace closures, operational restrictions, and other aviation-related matters.

In this case, the NOTAM informs relevant operators that Indian aircraft covered by the restrictions are not permitted to enter Pakistani airspace. Such notices are issued for a specific period and can be extended, amended, or cancelled by the relevant aviation authorities.

Airspace restrictions affect flight operations

Airspace restrictions can force airlines to use alternative routes, depending on their destinations and operational requirements. Changes in flight paths may affect travel distances, flight times and fuel consumption.

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However, the exact impact can vary depending on an airline’s network, aircraft type and the alternative routes available. The continued restrictions mean affected Indian operators will have to keep planning their flights without using Pakistani airspace.

Restrictions remain in place until September 24

The latest NOTAM keeps Pakistan’s existing airspace restrictions in place until 4:59am Pakistan Standard Time on September 24. The Pakistan Airports Authority has not announced whether the restrictions will be lifted after that deadline or extended again.

Any further decision is expected to be communicated through an updated NOTAM or another official announcement. For now, the existing restrictions remain in force for Indian airlines and other aircraft covered by the notice.