India Shuts Airspace to Pakistani Aircraft, Issues NOTAM

swift Summary

• India has closed its airspace for all Pakistani aircraft from april 30 to May 23, 2025. The restriction applies across key Flight Information Regions (FIRs) and includes all flights registered, owned, or leased by Pakistan.
• This measure comes after Pakistan closed its own airspace for Indian flights and other airlines over PoK.
• The restrictions follow the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, where Pakistan-backed terrorists killed 26 Hindu civilians in Kashmir.
• The attackers reportedly singled out Hindus by checking IDs, asked them to recite Kalma, and shot them dead in front of their families.
• Prime Minister Narendra Modi has given full operational freedom to India’s armed forces chiefs to respond at their discretion-regarding timing, targets, and mode of retaliation.
• Directors General of Military Operations (DGMO) between both countries held talks via hotline as Indian forces warned against unprovoked ceasefire violations along the LoC and International Border by Pakistani troops.
• Tensions have escalated since India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty post-ceasefire violations; Pakistan responded with a suspension of the Simla Agreement.

Read More: India Closes Air Space for All Pakistani Aircraft

Indian Opinion Analysis

India’s decision to close its airspace for Pakistani aircraft indicates a firm response amidst heightened tensions following the Pahalgam terror attack. This move reflects an assertive posture aimed at signaling accountability not only towards non-state actors but also their alleged state backers. Additionally,granting operational freedom to military leadership underscores India’s intent toward decisive counter-terror action while ensuring strategic ambiguity about how it will manifest.

The restrictions are symbolically significant as they challenge both regional security dynamics and logistical operations for Pakistan while also exacting diplomatic pressure. Though, such escalations run parallel risks of prolonging hostilities or further destabilizing bilateral ties. Strategically calibrated responses from here on will be critical in managing repercussions without compromising national interests or humanitarian considerations.