Pakistan has extended its ban on Indian aircraft using its airspace, keeping the restrictions in place until September 23rd. This decision, apparently motivated by the fallout from Operation Sindoor, highlights the ongoing complexities in the relationship between the two countries.
The Pakistani Civil Aviation Authority has issued a NOTAM confirming the extension of the airspace closure. This directive prohibits all Indian airline-operated aircraft from using Pakistani airspace. The restrictions also apply to Indian military and civilian aircraft, regardless of their ownership or leasing agreements.
The initial ban was imposed on April 23rd, for a duration of one month, in the wake of escalating tensions between the two countries. The tensions were triggered by the Pahalgam terrorist attack and then amplified by India’s Operation Sindoor, a military operation directed at terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK).
Following this military action, Pakistan launched attacks, met with a strong response from India. A ceasefire was declared after four days, but Pakistan has not yet removed the airspace ban.
Simultaneously, China, a major ally of Pakistan, has expressed interest in facilitating improved relations between India and Pakistan, even offering to mediate. This action by Pakistan could potentially hinder any future diplomatic discussions.