Pakistan Restricts Karachi and Lahore Airspace Amid Security Concerns

Pakistan has imposed a temporary partial closure of its airspace over Karachi and Lahore, citing security concerns, according to a report . The restrictions, effective from May 1 to May 31, 2025, come in the wake of heightened tensions with India following a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22, which claimed 26 lives.

The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority (CAA) announced that the airspace closure will affect specific regions but is not expected to significantly disrupt commercial flight operations. Aircraft will be rerouted through alternative paths to maintain service continuity, the CAA stated. Additionally, flights to Gilgit have been canceled due to the restrictions.

This move follows a series of tit-for-tat measures between India and Pakistan. Last week, Pakistan barred Indian airlines from its airspace, prompting India to reciprocate by closing its airspace to Pakistani carriers from April 30 to May 23. These actions have led to increased flight times and operational costs for airlines on both sides, with Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) facing significant disruptions, as highlighted by Air Marshal (Retd) Sanjeev Kapoor.

The airspace restrictions reflect the ongoing strain in India-Pakistan relations, exacerbated by the Pahalgam attack. Both nations have implemented diplomatic and economic countermeasures, including India’s suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and Pakistan’s threats to suspend bilateral agreements like the Simla Pact.

As the situation develops, the aviation sector braces for continued challenges, with rerouting and delays impacting regional and international travel.