New Delhi: Pakistan has abruptly closed its airspace, prompting Indian airlines such as Air India and IndiGo to reroute their international flights. The sudden move has disrupted flight schedules and led to longer travel times, affecting hundreds of passengers, reported the Madhyamam.
Air India confirmed that several of its west-bound flights to Europe and the US are now taking alternate routes, leading to increased fuel consumption and extended flight durations. IndiGo also reported operational changes, saying affected routes are being adjusted to ensure passenger safety and minimal inconvenience.
The closure comes amid rising regional tensions, although Pakistani authorities have yet to provide a clear reason for the airspace shutdown. Aviation experts suggest that the closure could have financial repercussions for carriers, as longer routes translate to higher operational costs.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is monitoring the situation and is in constant touch with the airlines to mitigate disruptions.
This is not the first time regional tensions have led to airspace closures, with a similar situation arising in 2019 following the Pulwama incident.
