Most foreign airlines have resumed flying over Pakistan after recent airspace restrictions eased following a ceasefire between Pakistan and India. However, Air France continues to avoid Pakistani airspace, causing delays and millions in additional fuel costs.
Normal Flights Resume Post-Ceasefire
Officials from the Pakistan Airport Authority (PAA) confirmed that carriers such as Lufthansa, Swiss Air, British Airways, Emirates, and Etihad have returned to their usual routes over Pakistan. These airlines had suspended overflights during the recent military tensions between Pakistan and India, which forced rerouting and increased travel times to key Indian cities like Delhi, Amritsar, and Mumbai.
With the ceasefire now in effect, direct flight paths through Pakistani skies have resumed. This has restored efficiency in air travel across the region and reduced operational costs for most airlines.
Read: President Zardari Praises China’s Key Role in Pakistan’s Progress
Air France Still Diverting
Despite the return to normalcy, Air France has not restored its flights through Pakistani airspace. Its routes to destinations including Delhi, Ahmedabad, Mumbai, and Bangalore continue to bypass Pakistan. According to aviation sources, other Air France services to different countries are also being rerouted.
The decision has led to substantial losses for the airline, with added fuel costs mounting into the millions. No official statement has been issued by Air France regarding the continued diversion.
Pakistan Extends Ban on Indian Flights
Meanwhile, Pakistan has extended its ban on Indian flights for another month. A fresh Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) is expected soon, as required under International Civil Aviation Organisation (ICAO) rules, which permit airspace closures for 30-day periods at a time.
India initially closed its airspace to Pakistani aircraft on April 23. Pakistan responded the next day with a similar move. Following Indian attacks on May 6 and 7, Pakistan launched Operation Bunyan-um-Marsoos on May 10, targeting Indian military sites. A ceasefire soon followed.
The closure has hit India’s aviation sector hard, while Pakistan’s industry has seen limited disruption due to minimal Far East traffic and only one affected route being redirected through China.
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