ISLAMABAD: Pakistan has shut its airspace to all flights owned or operated by Indian entities, as tensions escalated between the two countries following an armed attack on tourists in held Kashmir that left 26 people dead two days ago.
The National Security Committee (NSC) made the decision during a meeting in Islamabad.
The meeting and closure of the airspace among other decisions were in retaliation to the Indian hasty move to announce putting the Indus Water Treaty with Pakistan in abeyance over the terrorist attack.
Flights between India and Europe etc., have been using the airspace over Punjab and KP, including Chitral, due to tension in the Middle East. Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi also used the airspace over Chitral several times.
The NSC stated that it aims to “safeguard Pakistan’s sovereignty and national interests in light of India’s recent aggressive and irresponsible actions.”
This ban affects all Indian commercial, private, and cargo aircraft, cutting off direct air routes between India and Pakistan. Airlines are now rerouting flights, which is increasing travel times and costs on several regional routes.
A government spokesperson said, “We have taken this step as a calculated and necessary response. India’s actions have forced us to act decisively to protect our national security.”
Aviation experts note that the closure could also impact international flights between India and Europe that normally pass through Pakistani airspace.
Pakistan had previously closed its airspace in 2019 during a similar period of military tension. Officials say this new ban goes further and will remain in effect indefinitely.
Pakistan also announced a complete halt to all forms of trade with India, even through third-party nations. This move comes in response to India’s recent aggressive and irresponsible actions.
According to the official statement, Pakistani airspace has been closed to all flights owned or operated by Indian entities with immediate effect.
The SAARC visa exemption scheme has also been suspended, and all Indian nationals currently in Pakistan under this arrangement have been instructed to leave the country within 48 hours. Only Sikh religious pilgrims have been exempted from this directive.
Furthermore, Indian military, naval, and air advisors stationed in Islamabad have been declared persona non grata and instructed to leave Pakistan by April 30, 2025. Supporting staff associated with these advisors have also been ordered to return to India.