The India Decade

Pakistan extends airspace ban on Indian aircraft until November 24

Islamabad prolongs its prohibition on Indian commercial and military flights across Karachi and Lahore airspace.

By The India Decade

Map: Pakistan
Map: Pakistan · “Map: Pakistan” by © OpenStreetMap contributors, Geoapify (ODBL) via OpenStreetMap

Pakistan has extended its ban on Indian aircraft using its airspace until November 24, 2026, prolonging flight restrictions between the two neighbouring nations.

The Pakistan Airports Authority announced the decision through a fresh aviation notice, keeping its sky closed to all Indian-registered, owned, operated, or leased commercial aircraft as well as Indian military flights. The latest extension remains in effect until 4:59 am local time on November 24.

According to official documentation, the restriction applies across both of Pakistan's flight information regions—Karachi and Lahore.

Background to the flight restrictions

The reciprocal airspace closures began following the April 2025 terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir. In the wake of the cross-border attack, diplomatic and military security were tightened across the border.

Islamabad initially instituted flight curbs on April 23, 2025. India responded on April 30, 2025, by closing its airspace to Pakistani airlines.

Event / ParameterDetails
Ban extended untilNovember 24, 2026 (4:59 am local time)
Initial ban by PakistanApril 23, 2025
Reciprocal Indian closureApril 30, 2025
Affected airspace regionsKarachi and Lahore FIRs

Operational impact

While Indian carriers continue to adjust routing for select international destinations around Pakistani airspace, India's robust domestic aviation infrastructure and expanded international air corridors have ensured uninterrupted connectivity for passengers and freight networks worldwide.

Key numbers

WhatFigureSource
Ban expiration dateNovember 24, 2026 at 4:59 am local timePakistan Airports Authority
Initial restriction dateApril 23, 2025Pakistan Airports Authority
Reciprocal closure by IndiaApril 30, 2025Indian official notices

In this story

NameRole in the story
IndiaCountry whose aircraft are barred from Pakistani airspace.
PakistanCountry extending the airspace restrictions.
Pakistan Airports AuthorityIssued the aviation notice extending the airspace ban.

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