Pakistan has decided to extend its ban on Indian aircraft using Pakistani airspace until June 24, 2025. This means that no Indian planes whether owned, operated or leased by India including military and commercial flights are allowed to fly through Pakistan’s skies. The ban has been in place for over a month and was put into effect after India blocked the flow of river water into Pakistan.
The situation became more serious after a deadly attack in Pahalgam located in Indian-occupied Kashmir where 26 people were killed. India quickly blamed Pakistan for the incident without showing any proof. Government of Pakistan in response held a high level security meeting and decided to block Indian flights from using its airspace.
This ban has badly affected Indian airlines. Every day around 150 flights are forced to take longer routes adding 2 to 4 extra hours of travel time. Airlines have spent around Rs 5 billion more on fuel and another Rs 3 billion on stopovers and delays resulting in a total estimated loss of Rs 8 billion so far. Air India is among the most affected airlines and has requested financial help from the Indian government.
Also read this: Pakistan Condemns India’s Defence Minister Statement on Nuclear Weapons
