Pakistan’s Airspace Closure to Indian Airlines: Longer Flights, Higher Fares, and Disruptions Ahead

April 28, 2025 —
Pakistan’s decision to close its airspace to Indian airlines is already causing major disruptions across international travel routes, with significant implications for passengers, airlines, and government strategy.

Civil Aviation Minister K. M. Naidu confirmed on Monday that the government is in active discussions with Indian carriers to assess the full impact. “We sat with the airlines the very next day,” said Naidu. “I told them to thoroughly assess the impact if this continues for six months or a year — which routes will be affected, and how Indian carriers will compare with foreign ones.”

Major Flight Disruptions and Longer Routes

Over 800 international flights per week operated by Indian airlines are affected. These flights — mostly to West Asia, Europe, the UK, and North America — traditionally flew over Pakistani airspace. Now, they are forced to take longer and more expensive detours.

Flight tracking data reveals that Air India’s ultra-long-haul flights to North America are now making technical stops in Europe for refueling and crew changes, adding time and operational complexity. Meanwhile, IndiGo has suspended services to Central Asian destinations such as Almaty and Tashkent, citing aircraft limitations due to longer routes.

Naidu acknowledged that passengers flying from northern India to Europe or America will be particularly affected. “We are working with airlines to explore alternative routes that minimize the disruption,” he said.

Rising Costs and Competitive Disadvantage

Industry insiders warn that the increased flight duration and fuel usage will push up operating costs, which could soon be passed on to consumers through higher airfares.
To make matters worse for Indian carriers, foreign airlines that can still use Pakistani airspace now have a time and cost advantage, making them more attractive to price-sensitive international travelers.

Naidu did not rule out rerouting through Chinese airspace, but noted that the Himalayan crossing presents significant challenges. “Technically, they can go north and enter from the eastern side through China. But that means flying over the Himalayas — a high-altitude route. Aircraft capability, pilot experience, and crew safety become major concerns,” he explained. “Safety will always be the priority, even if it means longer flight times.”

Government Response and Airline Strategy

While financial aid for Indian carriers is not being discussed at this stage, Naidu emphasized that long-term planning is underway. “It’s too early to talk about direct government support,” he said.

This is not the first time Pakistan has closed its airspace to India. After the Balakot airstrikes in 2019, Indian airlines lost an estimated ₹700 crore, with Air India — given its extensive long-haul operations — being the worst affected.

Even today, Air India remains the only Indian airline operating non-stop long-haul and ultra-long-haul flights to Europe and North America, making it especially vulnerable under current conditions.