India Extends Airspace Ban on Pakistani Planes Until September 24

Rapid Summary

• India has extended the closure of it’s airspace for Pakistan-registered and operated planes, including military flights, until September 24 (0530 hrs IST).
• Pakistan has similarly extended the closure of its airspace for Indian aircraft until September 24.
• notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) were issued by both countries regarding these extensions.
• The restrictions follow the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which killed 26 people. India initially imposed a ban on April 30 as part of broader measures against Pakistan.
• Since May 24, the closure has been regularly extended month-by-month by both nations.

Indian Opinion Analysis

The continued extension of mutual airspace closures between India and Pakistan highlights lingering tensions in bilateral relations since the Pahalgam terror attack. This specific measure might be aimed at reducing operational security risks or economic interactions related to aviation. The ongoing extensions reflect an inability to resolve differences post-terror incident through diplomatic engagement, further fragmenting connectivity and cooperation in South Asia. While this restriction’s direct impact on commercial flights or logistical operations may depend on specific routes involved,it underscores a broader atmosphere of animosity that affects regional stability and dialog efforts.

Read more: The Hindu

Images:
!80/37IGIAIRPORT2305DELHI.jpg”>Airport image