New Delhi, April 30 : In a significant escalation of diplomatic and strategic tensions between India and Pakistan, the Indian government has announced a ban on all Pakistani airlines from operating through Indian airspace. The move comes in the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, which has further strained already fragile relations between the two neighbouring countries.
According to official sources, India has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) — a formal notification circulated to pilots and aviation authorities — declaring the restriction on Pakistani aircraft. The NOTAM explicitly prohibits Pakistani commercial and state-run airlines from traversing Indian airspace with immediate effect.
Government officials said the decision was taken after high-level consultations within the Ministry of Civil Aviation and the Ministry of External Affairs, in response to both the security situation and the precedent set by Islamabad. Just a week ago, Pakistan had unilaterally barred Indian carriers from using its airspace, citing national security concerns.
“This reciprocal measure is both symbolic and strategic. India has the sovereign right to control access to its airspace, especially in light of recent provocations,” said a senior government official on condition of anonymity.
The Pahalgam terror attack, which claimed multiple lives and has been widely condemned across India, is being viewed in New Delhi as a tipping point in bilateral ties, which have been deteriorating steadily in recent months.
Aviation analysts note that while the immediate impact of the ban will be more logistical than economic, it could significantly increase the flight time and operational costs for Pakistani airlines flying westward, especially to destinations in the Middle East and Europe.
The Indian government's move signals a toughening stance on cross-border terrorism and reflects its resolve to respond not just diplomatically, but also through economic and logistical means. As of now, there has been no official response from the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority or the Ministry of Foreign Affairs in Islamabad, but regional observers expect a strongly worded reaction.
As tensions between the two nuclear-armed neighbours continue to rise, the international community is keeping a close watch on developments in South Asia. Several countries have already urged both sides to exercise restraint and avoid further escalation.
