India-Pakistan airspace standoff: Latest developments and impact on global flights

In the wake of the tragic Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which claimed the lives of 26 Hindu tourists, India and Pakistan have entered a severe diplomatic and aviation standoff. The incident has led to reciprocal airspace closures, significantly impacting international flight operations and escalating regional tensions.
Following the attack, India accused Pakistani nationals of involvement, prompting Pakistan to close its airspace to Indian carriers on April 24. In retaliation, India issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) on April 30, effective until May 23, barring all Pakistani-registered and operated aircraft, including military planes, from its airspace .
Many aviation operations have been hampered by the airspace closures. The forced rerouting of some 600 international flights headed west by Indian carriers, mainly Air India and IndiGo, has resulted in longer flight durations and higher operating expenses. For example, planes from San Francisco to Delhi now have to make extra fuel stops, which can make the trip take up to four hours.
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Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) has also been affected, with 6-8 weekly flights impacted due to the Indian airspace closure . The airline is rerouting flights through alternative corridors, including Chinese and Thai airspace, to maintain operations .

Indian authorities are looking into alternate flight routes to avoid Pakistani airspace in reaction to the interruptions. One suggested route would provide direct access to Europe and North America by flying north from Delhi to Leh and then crossing the Hindu Kush mountains into Kyrgyzstan and Tajikistan. However, China's overflight permits and modifications for high-altitude flying, including a larger oxygen supply, are needed for this route.
The aviation standoff is part of a broader deterioration in India-Pakistan relations following the Pahalgam attack. India has suspended visa services for Pakistani nationals, expelled diplomats, and halted the Indus Waters Treaty. Pakistan has responded with its own set of countermeasures, including trade suspensions and diplomatic downgrades.
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The rising tensions have sparked concerns across the world. In order to stop further escalations, the United States has asked both countries to be restrained and to communicate. The UN has also emphasized the need for a peaceful end to the dispute and offered to mediate.
The reciprocal airspace closures between India and Pakistan have not only disrupted aviation operations but also signaled a significant escalation in bilateral tensions. As both nations navigate this complex situation, the international community watches closely, hoping for a de-escalation and a return to diplomatic engagement.