KARACHI — In a significant development amid ongoing regional tensions, Pakistan has extended the closure of its airspace to Indian aircraft until November 23, 2025, according to a new NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority.
The extension applies to all categories of Indian-registered aircraft, including commercial passenger flights, cargo planes, and military aircraft. This latest directive continues a restriction that has been in place since April 23, when Pakistan initially imposed the airspace closure following a sharp deterioration in bilateral relations.
The move came a day after India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty in response to the tragic deaths of 26 tourists in the Muslim-majority region of Pahalgam in occupied Kashmir an incident that further strained already fragile ties between the two neighbors.
In retaliation, Pakistan announced a series of countermeasures on April 24, including the closure of its airspace, suspension of border crossings, and a halt to all forms of trade with India.
Since then, the airspace ban has been periodically extended, first on May 23, then on June 23, and now through November 23, 2025. Officials familiar with the matter say the decision reflects Islamabad’s continued stance on recent political and security developments, adding that a review of the situation will take place closer to the new deadline.
A senior aviation official, speaking on condition of anonymity, told reporters that the measure is “precautionary but firm,” noting that “no relaxation is being considered at this stage.”
Diplomatic observers view the extension as a sign that Pakistan and India remain locked in a prolonged freeze, with limited communication channels and no visible progress toward normalization.
