Pakistan has extended its airspace restriction on Indian aircraft until 04:59 local time on 24 November 2026, requiring carriers including Air India, IndiGo and Air India Express to continue avoiding Pakistani airspace on affected international routes. The Pakistan Airports Authority’s latest Notice to Airmen covers Indian-registered aircraft and aircraft owned, operated or leased by Indian airlines and operators, including military flights, across the Karachi and Lahore flight information regions.
The extension took effect at 19:45 Pakistan time on 17 October, replacing a restriction that was due to expire on 24 October. It prolongs a measure first introduced on 23 April 2025 as relations between India and Pakistan deteriorated.
Indian airlines must continue routing flights around Pakistan, including via the Arabian Sea and Iranian airspace. The detours increase flight times, fuel use, crew costs and other operating expenses, particularly on services linking northern India with Europe, the United Kingdom, the Middle East, the Caucasus and North America.
The restrictions also affect network planning. Air India has reduced or suspended some European services for the 2026 winter season. India imposed reciprocal restrictions on Pakistani-registered aircraft and aircraft operated, owned or leased by Pakistani airlines in late April 2025, with no immediate indication that either side will lift its measures.