The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has announced that its airspace will stay closed for all Indian-registered planes until August 24 at 4:59 am. This update was shared in a new notice called a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) issued on Friday.
This ban means that no plane owned, operated, or leased by India is allowed to fly through Pakistan’s skies.
The restriction also includes military aircraft. Pakistan first put this ban in place on April 24 as a reaction to India’s decision to stop following the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT). The treaty is an old agreement that helps both countries share and manage river water fairly.
Pakistan believes India’s move to suspend the treaty goes against peaceful cooperation, so closing its airspace is a way to respond. Because of this, Indian airlines have had to change their flight routes to avoid Pakistani airspace. This has made some flights longer and more expensive for airlines and passengers.
With the extension of the ban, airlines must keep adjusting their routes. Flights between India and Europe, or between India and the Middle East, might still take longer than usual. Passengers are being told to check their flight details in advance and stay updated about any delays or changes.
The PAA has reminded all airlines to follow the restriction and make safe plans for alternate routes. This situation shows how political issues between countries can affect everyday travel for people around the world. Many hope both sides find a solution soon so that air travel can return to normal.
