Pakistan, India Extend Airspace Ban After Violence
Karachi (AFP) — May 23, 2023
Pakistan and India’s aviation authorities have extended an airspace ban on each other’s airlines, following a 4-day military conflict that ended in a ceasefire on May 10.
On April 24, Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian planes, while India similarly banned Pakistani planes from its skies. The ban has been extended until June 23.
Pakistan’s Civil Aviation Authority stated, "No flight operated by Indian airlines or operators will be allowed to use Pakistani airspace, and this ban applies to Indian military aircraft."
India’s Ministry of Civil Aviation had a similar stance, issuing a "Notice to Airmen" for Pakistani flights until June 23.
Sources:
Kashmir, a predominantly Muslim region claimed by both countries since their independence in 1947, has seen multiple wars over the Himalayan territory.
The decision to close airspace has increased travel times from India to Central Asia, Europe, and North America, potentially making flights more expensive.
Cost to Domestic Airlines:
A domestic airline in Pakistan suffered a financial cost of nearly 5.5 billion rupees ($64.3 million) in 2019 due to a five-month shutdown by India.
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