Leading Indian airlines are preparing for increased operational costs and extended flight durations following Pakistan’s decision to close its airspace to Indian carriers. The move comes in the wake of heightened diplomatic tensions after a recent militant attack in Kashmir.
This closure mirrors a similar event in 2019, when Pakistan restricted its airspace following the Balakot airstrikes. During that period, Indian airlines reportedly incurred losses of approximately ₹700 crore due to increased fuel consumption and logistical challenges caused by longer flight paths.
The current restrictions are expected to disrupt flight operations to several key international destinations, including Central Asia, the Caucasus, West Asia, Europe, the United Kingdom, and North America.
According to industry sources, Air India’s flights from New Delhi to the Middle East will now require up to an hour of additional flight time. This increase not only raises fuel costs but also limits cargo capacity to accommodate the extra fuel load.
IndiGo, India’s largest airline, stated that “a few” of its services would be affected. Meanwhile, Air India confirmed via X that select flights to and from North America, the UK, Europe, and the Middle East would operate on alternative extended routes.
The airspace closure adds further strain to an already pressured aviation sector. Indian airlines are grappling with delays in aircraft deliveries from both Boeing and Airbus, complicating their expansion strategies. With fuel and oil accounting for nearly 30% of total operating costs, the latest development poses a serious financial and logistical challenge for carriers across the country.
