Pakistan has closed its airspace to Indian airlines as the crisis between the neighboring countries deepens following the killing of 26 people in Indian-administered Kashmir on April 22, 2025.
On April 24, 2025, Pakistan announced that its airspace would immediately close to “Indian owned or Indian operated airlines” leaving carriers such as Air India and IndiGo seeking alternative routes.
In a statement the Pakistan Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif announced a number of steps he would take in response to “Indian measures announced on 23 April 2025”.
According to Reuters, these measures included India shutting the only land border to Pakistan and suspending a water-distribution treaty between the two countries.
Pakistan described the steps as “unilateral, unjust, politically motivated, extremely irresponsible and devoid of legal merit,” according to Al Jazeera.
IMPORTANT UPDATE:
Due to the announced restriction of Pakistan airspace for all Indian airlines, it is expected that some Air India flights to or from North America, UK, Europe, and Middle East will take an alternative extended route. Air India regrets the inconvenience caused…
— Air India (@airindia) April 24, 2025
Among Pakistan’s countermeasures were the suspension of “all visas under SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme (SVES) issued to Indian nationals”.
Indian nationals already in the country under the scheme were “instructed to exit within 48 hours, less Sikh pilgrims”.
In response to airspace closure, Air India advised customers that flights to or from North America, UK, Europe, and Middle East will take an alternative extended route.
“Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to our passengers due to this unforeseen airspace closure that is outside our control. We would like to reiterate that at Air India, the safety of our customers and crew remains top priority,” the airline said.
IndiGo advised passengers that a “few international flight schedules” may be impacted due to the ongoing situation.
‘We understand the inconvenience this may cause, and our teams are doing their best to help you reach” your destination at the earliest possible,” IndiGo.
According to Reuters, at least 26 people, including 25 Indian nationals, were killed by gunmen in Pahalgam after suspected militants opened fire in an area popular with tourists. ‘Kashmir Resistance’ has claimed responsibility.
