New Delhi: India has once again extended the closure of its airspace to Pakistani aircraft, now until September 24. In a reciprocal move, Pakistan has also extended its airspace restrictions for Indian flights until the same date.
Both countries issued separate Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) formalizing the extensions.
India initially imposed the airspace ban following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which claimed 26 lives. The closure, effective from April 30, applied to all aircraft operated, owned, or leased by Pakistani airlines and operators, including military flights.
According to the NOTAM issued on August 22, Indian airspace will remain closed to Pakistani-registered aircraft, as well as aircraft operated, owned, or leased by Pakistani airlines, including military planes, until 23:59 UTC on September 23 (05:30 IST on September 24).
The restrictions, part of broader measures taken by India in response to the Pahalgam attack, were initially set to last until May 24 and have been extended monthly since then. The curbs, previously in effect until August 24, are now extended through September 24.
Pakistan issued its corresponding NOTAM on August 20, continuing the closure of its airspace for Indian aircraft.
For context, a NOTAM is an official notice containing information essential for personnel involved in flight operations.
