After the Pahalgam terrorist attack, India has taken another major step against Pakistan. It has closed its airspace to all Pakistani airlines until 23 May 2025. Pakistan had already imposed a similar ban on Indian airlines. India’s move is expected to hurt Pakistan economically. Pakistani airlines will now have to take longer and more circuitous routes to avoid Indian airspace. This will increase the flight distances and durations, resulting in higher fuel consumption and operational costs. Consequently, ticket prices for passengers may also rise.
More Time and Cost Involved
Flights from Pakistan to East or Southeast Asia, and vice versa, will be particularly affected. These flights will need to detour around Indian airspace, significantly increasing travel times for passengers. This inconvenience, along with increased costs, may lead some passengers to avoid flying with Pakistani airlines, causing potential revenue loss. This move also sends a strong diplomatic message to Pakistan, highlighting the ongoing tensions between the two countries.
Pakistan Had Already Closed Its Airspace
Pakistan had previously closed its airspace to Indian airlines. India’s latest action is seen as a reciprocal response. When both countries restrict their airspace to each other, airlines from both sides are not allowed to fly over one another’s territory.
However, it’s important to note that India’s airspace is significantly larger than Pakistan’s. As a result, Pakistan’s airspace closure has a relatively smaller impact on India, whereas India’s ban has a much larger effect on Pakistan.