Pakistan has extended restrictions on the use of its airspace by Indian aircraft until July 24, according to a notice issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA).

Local media reported that the extension applies to all Indian commercial and military flights, continuing measures that were previously imposed amid heightened tensions between the two neighboring countries.

Under the latest directive, Pakistan's airspace will remain closed not only to aircraft registered in India but also to planes leased or operated by Indian airlines.

The restrictions mean that aircraft used by India-based carriers, including leased fleets, will be prohibited from transiting through Pakistani airspace during the extension period.

"Restrictions remain in place amid strained ties"

Relations between Islamabad and New Delhi deteriorated sharply following a deadly attack in the Pahalgam area of Indian-administered Jammu and Kashmir on April 22, 2025.

The attack, in which gunmen opened fire on tourists, left 26 people dead and triggered a series of retaliatory measures by both governments.

In the aftermath of the incident, India and Pakistan imposed reciprocal restrictions, including the suspension of bilateral trade and the closure of their respective airspaces to one another's airlines.

The latest extension signals that aviation-related restrictions remain in effect despite international calls for stability between the nuclear-armed neighbors. (ILKHA)