India Closes 25 Flight Routes to Pakistan Amid Escalating Tensions and Military Actions

India has closed approximately 25 flight routes that allow aircraft to enter Pakistan through Indian airspace. This decision coincides with missile strikes by the Indian armed forces on terror targets in Pakistan. Rising tensions between the two nations have led many foreign airlines to avoid Pakistani airspace.

Representative image

On April 30, India restricted its airspace for Pakistani airlines as a retaliatory measure following the Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, which resulted in at least 26 fatalities. In response, Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian carriers on April 24.

Impact on International Flights

The closure of these routes means foreign airlines exiting Indian airspace will need to take longer paths to their destinations, avoiding Pakistani airspace. An official mentioned that foreign carriers have been advised to use alternative routes that bypass Pakistan.

Airlines are required to pay a fee to the civil aviation authority of the country they overfly. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) manages Air Traffic Management Services (ATMS) across Indian airspace and nearby oceanic regions.

Operation Sindoor: Targeting Terror Bases

Early on Wednesday, India initiated Operation Sindoor, launching missile attacks on nine terror sites in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. These targets included the Jaish-e-Mohammad stronghold in Bahawalpur and Lashkar-e-Taiba's base in Muridke.

The closure of flight routes is indefinite, according to three officials. They stated that this measure affects around 25 routes allowing entry into Pakistani airspace until further notice.

This strategic move reflects the ongoing tensions and security concerns between India and Pakistan. It highlights the broader impact on international aviation, requiring adjustments for airlines operating in the region.

With inputs from PTI