Pakistan extends ban on Indian aircraft until Aug 23

Pakistan extended a ban on Indian civilian and military aircraft on Saturday, issuing a Notice to Airmen that keeps Indian-registered and Indian-operated planes barred until Aug 23, 2026. Officials at the Pakistan Airports Authority said the restriction replaces a prior curfew that had been due to expire on July 24.

Notam covers OPKR and OPLR

Officials at the Pakistan Airports Authority wrote in the Notam: "Pakistan airspace not available for Indian-registered aircraft and aircraft operated or leased by Indian airlines/operators, including military flights." The restriction applies to both Karachi (OPKR) and Lahore (OPLR) flight information regions, the Notam said.

The closure dates back to late April 2025 after a deadly attack in Indian-administered Kashmir and a series of reciprocal measures announced on April 24 that included immediate airspace curbs. Pakistani officials have repeatedly extended the ban since then; Indian authorities alleged Pakistani involvement in the attack, while Pakistani officials denied any role and offered a neutral probe.

The extension sustains higher operational costs for airlines that must route around Pakistani airspace, and it keeps a political flashpoint open between two nuclear-armed neighbours. Civilian flight planning and military air operations in South Asia may remain constrained while diplomatic tensions persist.

Officials said the Notam will remain in force until 11:59pm on Aug 23, 2026; any change before that date would have to be announced publicly by the issuing authority.