Mumbai: In the wake of the recent terror attack in Pahalgam, escalating tensions between India and Pakistan have resulted in Pakistan closing its airspace to all Indian airlines. This move is expected to significantly affect international flights from Delhi and other northern Indian cities, leading to longer travel times, increased fuel consumption, and higher airfares.
Extended Flight Durations and Increased Fuel Costs
The closure of Pakistan’s airspace has forced Indian carriers to take longer, alternate routes for their international flights, particularly those bound for destinations in North America, Europe, the Middle East, and the UK. As airlines reroute their flights over the Arabian Sea instead of passing through Pakistan’s airspace, the duration of some flights will increase by approximately 2 to 2.5 hours. This extra travel time will result in higher fuel consumption, which in turn will raise operational costs for airlines.
Airline Responses and Impact on Passengers
India’s leading airlines, such as Air India and IndiGo, have confirmed that their international operations are being disrupted due to the closure of Pakistani airspace. Air India announced that its flights to key international destinations will follow extended alternative routes. The airline emphasized its commitment to passenger safety and convenience but acknowledged the inconvenience caused by these unforeseen changes.
IndiGo, similarly, stated that a number of its international flights are impacted, noting that they are doing everything possible to minimize delays and help passengers reach their destinations as quickly as possible. Both airlines expressed their regrets over the inconvenience, which is beyond their control.
Higher Fares Likely as Operational Costs Rise
As airlines adjust their flight paths, it is anticipated that airfares could rise by 8–12 percent in the short term. The added fuel costs and changes in flight schedules are expected to make international travel from India more expensive. If the airspace restriction continues for an extended period, fares could increase even further, further burdening passengers.
Historical Context and Future Outlook
This is not the first time Pakistan has restricted Indian airlines’ access to its airspace. A similar airspace closure occurred in 2019 following the Indian Air Force’s airstrikes in Balakot after the Pulwama terror attack. Given the ongoing tensions between the two nations, the aviation industry will need to continually adjust its plans, and passengers should be prepared for potential disruptions, delays, and rising ticket costs in the coming weeks.
