Islamabad: Pakistan has once again extended its airspace ban on Indian aircraft, continuing a policy that has increasingly become a symbol of the strained ties between the two neighbours. The latest restriction will remain in force until 24 September, with the renewed order taking effect from 23 August.

According to a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority, Pakistani airspace will remain unavailable to Indian-registered aircraft as well as aircraft operated or leased by Indian airlines and operators.

The extension will take effect at 10:15 am on 23 August and remain effective until 4:59 am on 24 September. The restriction covers both the Karachi and Lahore Flight Information Regions (FIRs).

Pakistan’s repeated extensions of the ban have kept the aviation sector caught in the crossfire of its deteriorating relations with India. The restrictions have forced airlines to take longer routes, adding to operational costs and increasing journey times for passengers.

The latest move comes against the backdrop of the measures imposed by both countries following the April 2025 Pahalgam terrorist attack, in which 26 people were killed. India subsequently maintained reciprocal restrictions on Pakistani-registered aircraft, airlines and military flights using Indian airspace.

While Pakistan has once again chosen to prolong its restrictions, the move also highlights how deeply bilateral tensions continue to affect civilian aviation and regional connectivity. The recurring extensions mean that what was initially introduced as a retaliatory aviation measure has become a continuing feature of India-Pakistan airspace relations.

With the new order beginning on 23 August, Pakistan has once again opted for restriction over regional connectivity, leaving airlines and passengers to bear the practical consequences of its prolonged airspace policy.