Pakistan has closed its airspace to all air traffic until Sunday noon, escalating tensions with India after overnight military strikes. The move follows India’s temporary closure of 32 airports, signaling a deepening conflict with regional implications.
By New Delhi Post
New Delhi, May 10, 2025 – Amid a sharp escalation in the India-Pakistan conflict, Pakistan has imposed a complete shutdown of its airspace to all air traffic until 12 pm (Pakistan time) on Sunday, May 11, as confirmed by a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority. This follows a series of aggressive military exchanges, with both nations targeting each other’s installations overnight and into Saturday morning. Flight tracking data reveals an unprecedentedly deserted Pakistani airspace, underscoring the severity of the situation.
Airspace Closures Signal Heightened Conflict
Pakistan’s initial NOTAM announced the airspace closure from 3:15 am to 12 pm on Saturday, but a subsequent notice extended the restriction to Sunday noon. This marks a significant escalation, as Pakistan had not previously halted civil aviation despite ongoing drone and missile attacks against India. The closure has grounded all flights, stranding passengers and disrupting regional air travel. Meanwhile, India’s response has been equally robust, with 32 airports in northern and western regions temporarily closed to civil operations until 5:29 am IST on May 15, according to India’s aviation authorities.
Regional Implications and Civilian Impact
The airspace closures have far-reaching consequences for civilian air travel and regional connectivity. Airlines are rerouting flights, causing delays and cancellations that affect thousands of passengers. The economic toll is mounting, with supply chains disrupted due to restricted air cargo movements. The closures also raise concerns about potential miscalculations in the volatile region, as both nations maintain heightened military alertness. International airlines are closely monitoring the situation, with many suspending operations over the affected areas to avoid risks.
Global Concerns Over Escalation
The international community is watching with growing alarm as the India-Pakistan conflict intensifies. The airspace closures reflect a broader deterioration in relations, with both sides engaging in tit-for-tat military actions. Diplomatic efforts to de-escalate have so far yielded little progress, and the prolonged restrictions on air traffic signal a deepening crisis. Analysts warn that the situation could spiral further, urging both nations to pursue dialogue to prevent a broader regional conflict.
As tensions soar, the airspace closures highlight the fragility of India-Pakistan relations. With civilian life disrupted and military posturing intensifying, the region braces for an uncertain future, awaiting diplomatic breakthroughs to restore stability.