After the Pahalgam attack, India has delivered another major blow to Pakistan, which has come under the radar for allegedly supporting the terrorists. India has announced the closure of its airspace to all flights from Pakistan.
This period of airspace closure will be effective from April 30 to May 23. During this period, aircraft registered, operated or leased in Pakistan, including military aircraft, will not be allowed to enter Indian airspace in the restricted area.
Airspace Ban to Cost Pakistan Aviation Sector Dearly
The move is expected to cause huge financial losses to Pakistan’s aviation sector. Pakistani airlines will now have to reroute their flights to Southeast Asian countries like Malaysia via nations such as China or Sri Lanka. This detour will significantly increase travel distances, adding to the financial burden on an already economically struggling Pakistan.
Pakistani Airline PIA Cancels Flights
Before India closed its airspace, Pakistani media reported that the country’s national airline, Pakistan International Airlines (PIA), had cancelled flights to Gilgit, Skardu and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.
According to a report in Urdu daily Jang, PIA has cancelled two flights each from Karachi and Lahore to Skardu. Apart from this, a total of six flights from Islamabad to Skardu and Gilgit have also been cancelled. Pakistan has also tightened surveillance over its airspace.
Pahalgam Attack: Commercial Flights Also Cancelled
According to The Express Tribune, all commercial flights have been cancelled due to security concerns. Officials said these measures are precautionary and aimed at ensuring the safety of the national airspace amid regional tensions. Additionally, Pakistani authorities have put all airports on high alert.
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