ISLAMABAD: Pakistan’s decision to close its airspace for Indian carriers on Thursday is expected to cause significant financial strain on India’s top airlines, as flights from northern Indian cities to western destinations face longer routes and increased fuel consumption.
According to Indian media reports, the move will disrupt westbound flights to Central Asia, Europe, the UK, and North America. Airlines such as IndiGo and Air India have already acknowledged that several of their international operations are being impacted.
Indian carriers now face higher operational costs due to detours and extended flight durations, which could also result in a spike in airfares. Industry experts say a full assessment is still underway, but losses are inevitable — particularly for long-haul flights originating from northern Indian hubs like Delhi, Amritsar, and Lucknow.
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This is not the first time Pakistan has used its airspace closure as a countermeasure. A similar action taken in 2019 following the Balakot incident reportedly cost Indian airlines nearly ₹700 crore (approx. USD 85 million), with Air India suffering the most due to its extensive international network.
The current restrictions are already affecting flight schedules. IndiGo has issued a travel advisory, extending travel times to destinations like Baku and Tbilisi, while cancelling flights such as the one from Delhi to Almaty. Air India has also confirmed that several of its flights to North America and Europe will now be rerouted, causing delays.
While other international airlines continue to use Pakistani airspace, Indian carriers now face a competitive disadvantage due to the longer detours. Flights are expected to reroute via Gujarat or Maharashtra before heading westward, increasing flying time and costs.
No formal reaction has come from India’s civil aviation ministry so far. However, airlines are reportedly monitoring the situation closely and adjusting flight plans accordingly.