Following a deadly attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, which resulted in the deaths of 26 tourists, Pakistan has closed its airspace to Indian airlines. This decision, effective from 6 PM on April 24, 2025, has led to significant disruptions in Indian aviation operations. Flights from Sharjah to Amritsar were rerouted before entering Pakistani airspace near Turbat.
An Indian airline flight en route to India had to land in Ahmedabad to refuel after passing through the Gulf of Oman. Additionally, a flight from Toronto to India made a refuelling stop in Copenhagen and flights from Paris and London to Delhi were diverted to Abu Dhabi for the same reason.
The closure has imposed logistical challenges and increased operational costs for Indian airlines. Federal Minister for Information and Broadcasting Attaullah Tarar stated that the airspace closure would eventually cause millions of dollars in losses to Indian airlines.
Read more: Who’s Behind the Deadly Kashmir Attack? 26 Lives Lost in Pahalgam Horror
This move is part of Pakistan’s response to measures taken by India following the Pahalgam attack, including the suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and the closure of the Wagah border crossing. Pakistan has also suspended all trade with India, including goods passing through Pakistan to or from third countries. The duration of the airspace closure remains unspecified.
The situation has led to a significant escalation in diplomatic tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours. India has accused Pakistan of involvement in the Pahalgam attack, while Pakistan has denied the allegations, calling them baseless and lacking credible evidence. Both countries have taken reciprocal measures, including the suspension of visas and the expulsion of diplomatic staff.
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