Pakistan, seemingly unforgetful of the events of Operation Sindoor, continues to take actions aimed at justifying its stance. Unable to directly contend with the Indian military, the Pakistani administration has extended the ban on Indian aircraft entering its airspace until September 23rd.
The Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority issued a new NOTAM (Notice to Airmen), announcing the extension of the restriction on Indian aircraft entering Pakistani airspace for another month. The authority stated that all aircraft operated by Indian airlines would be prohibited from using Pakistani airspace. This restriction also applies to military and civilian aircraft owned or leased by India.
The ban was initially imposed on April 23rd for a month, in response to the military conflict between the two countries following the terrorist attack in Pahalgam. India launched Operation Sindoor on May 7th, a large-scale military operation targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (POK).
Pakistan retaliated with attacks on India, which were met with a strong response. A ceasefire was reached after four days of conflict, but Pakistan has yet to lift the airspace ban.
This move comes at a time when Pakistan’s primary ally, China, has expressed a desire to improve relations between India and Pakistan, even offering to mediate between the two. However, Pakistan’s actions may impact any future talks.
