New Delhi, October 2026 : Pakistan has extended its restrictions on Indian aircraft using its airspace until November 24, 2026, according to a fresh Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA).
The authority announced the decision on social media platform X, confirming that the ban would continue for another month and apply to both civilian and military aircraft associated with India.
The latest extension replaces the earlier deadline of October 24. Under the revised restrictions, Indian-registered aircraft, along with aircraft owned, operated or leased by Indian airlines and aviation operators, will remain prohibited from entering Pakistani airspace unless a further change is announced.
The restrictions cover both Pakistan’s Karachi and Lahore Flight Information Regions (FIRs) and apply to all categories of Indian aircraft, including military flights.
The airspace restrictions were introduced amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir in April 2025. Pakistan initially closed its airspace to Indian aircraft on April 23, 2025, while India imposed reciprocal restrictions on Pakistani airlines and aircraft from April 30, 2025.
Since then, both countries have repeatedly extended their respective restrictions, with no immediate indication of a relaxation in the aviation curbs.
India accused Pakistan of backing the Pahalgam attack, an allegation firmly rejected by Islamabad. The dispute triggered a sharp deterioration in diplomatic relations and heightened military tensions between the neighbouring countries.
The continued restrictions have implications for airline operations, particularly flight routes between India and destinations that could otherwise be reached more directly through Pakistani airspace. Airlines may need to use alternative routes, potentially increasing flight distances, travel times and operating costs, depending on the destination.
Pakistan has imposed similar restrictions on Indian aircraft during previous periods of strained bilateral relations, including the 1999 Kargil conflict and the aftermath of the 2019 Pulwama attack, according to media reports.
Pakistan’s airspace is divided into the Karachi and Lahore Flight Information Regions, both of which remain covered by the current ban.
The latest extension underscores the continuing impact of tensions between the two countries on regional aviation. The restrictions will remain in force until November 24 unless the Pakistani authorities announce another revision before the deadline.
