Tensions between Pakistan and India have had a major impact on Indian aviation, with the closure of Pakistan’s airspace causing chaos for over 60 flights in just 16 hours. The unexpected move, which forced costly reroutes and diversions, has resulted in millions of rupees in losses for Indian airlines.
Four major carriers — Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air — have been particularly affected. Flights to and from Europe, the Middle East, Central Asia, and North America have faced increased flight times, fuel consumption, and additional diversions. Notably, the special flight carrying India’s vice president to Italy was forced to take a detour, adding 90 minutes to the journey, while another vice president flight was delayed due to the rerouted paths.
Several long-haul flights, including Air India’s Toronto-Delhi route, IndiGo’s Delhi-Tbilisi flight, and SpiceJet’s Dubai-Amritsar flight, experienced significant delays and cancellations. These disruptions are expected to impact over 300 flights weekly at Delhi airport, one of the busiest in the region.
Airlines are now bracing for a rise in operational costs. The added fuel expenses, extended flight durations, and adjusted cargo loads are pushing up the already significant cost of operations, particularly for Indian airlines. In 2019, a similar airspace closure cost Indian airlines an estimated $64 million, and this year’s disruption could lead to even higher financial losses.
Aviation staff are under intense pressure, with airline teams working overnight to recalibrate flight schedules, crew rotations, and flight paths. According to an anonymous airline executive, the logistical challenges have been overwhelming, with some carriers like IndiGo needing to realign up to 50 international routes.
The closure came in response to rising tensions between the two nations following a deadly militant attack in Indian-administered Kashmir, which India has blamed on “Pakistani elements” — a claim Pakistan denies. In retaliation, India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty, further escalating tensions and prompting retaliatory measures from both sides.
The airspace closure, however, only affects Indian-registered aircraft, with international airlines flying to India remaining unaffected by the restrictions. Indian airlines had previously relied heavily on Pakistani airspace for flights to Europe and the Americas, with 139 weekly flights typically passing through Pakistani skies.
A spokesperson from the Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) declined to comment on the matter.
