The closure of Pakistani airspace to Indian flights has entered its ninth day, with over 800 Indian flights affected during the past eight days. Indian airlines have reportedly suffered losses exceeding 170 crore Indian rupees (approximately $20.3 million) in this period.
The airspace restriction is forcing Indian aircraft to fly around Pakistan by traveling across half of India and over the Arabian Sea, significantly extending flight paths. These longer routes have doubled fuel consumption and other operational expenses, severely impacting Indian carriers' finances.
Due to mounting losses from the airspace closure, IndiGo Air has suspended its Central Asia operations. Air India has seen its operational costs double, particularly affecting its long-haul flights to the United States, Europe, and the United Kingdom, which now require two refueling stops.
Indian flights from Delhi, Mumbai, Amritsar, Bangalore, and Ahmedabad to Dubai have also been severely impacted. Sources indicate that crews on US-bound Indian flights now need to be changed in Europe, adding further complications.
The need for two landings and refueling stops is costing Indian airlines millions in additional airport charges daily. India's Aviation Minister has reportedly informed airlines that Pakistan's airspace might remain closed for up to a year.
Indian passengers are increasingly choosing foreign carriers over domestic airlines due to these disruptions. Sources claim that Indian airlines have informed the Indian government about their daily financial losses and have requested financial assistance.
Pakistan had decided to close its airspace to Indian aircraft for one month from April 23 to May 23, 2025, in what appears to be an escalation of ongoing tensions between the two countries.
