The Pakistan Airports Authority on 21 November issued a fresh NOTAM extending the closure of Pakistani airspace to all Indian-registered or Indian-operated aircraft—including overflights—until 04:59 AM (PKT) on 24 December 2025. The ban, first imposed in April following a terrorist attack in Kashmir, continues to apply from ground level to unlimited altitude across both the Karachi and Lahore Flight Information Regions.
For Indian carriers the extension means continued long detours over the Arabian Sea or via Iranian airspace on Europe, US and Gulf routes. Air India estimates additional fuel burn is costing up to USD 3 million per month and adding as much as three hours on some Chicago and Toronto flights.
![Pakistan Extends Complete Airspace Ban on Indian Aircraft Until 24 December]()
Multinationals moving staff between India and Europe should factor in longer duty times, potential crew-rest layovers and schedule volatility. Insurance teams may also need to review ‘time-on-board’ exposure limits for employees. Logistic planners shipping high-value cargo on belly-hold capacity could see surcharges persist through the peak holiday season.
Diplomatically, the move underscores that despite recent trade talks, security tensions remain high. Until the ban is lifted, Indian travel managers may find Middle-East hubs such as Dubai or Doha remain the most reliable connection points for Europe-bound itineraries.
For Indian carriers the extension means continued long detours over the Arabian Sea or via Iranian airspace on Europe, US and Gulf routes. Air India estimates additional fuel burn is costing up to USD 3 million per month and adding as much as three hours on some Chicago and Toronto flights.
Multinationals moving staff between India and Europe should factor in longer duty times, potential crew-rest layovers and schedule volatility. Insurance teams may also need to review ‘time-on-board’ exposure limits for employees. Logistic planners shipping high-value cargo on belly-hold capacity could see surcharges persist through the peak holiday season.
Diplomatically, the move underscores that despite recent trade talks, security tensions remain high. Until the ban is lifted, Indian travel managers may find Middle-East hubs such as Dubai or Doha remain the most reliable connection points for Europe-bound itineraries.
