Key Points

Pakistan has abruptly closed its airspace to Indian airlines, causing significant disruptions to international flight routes. Air India and IndiGo have been forced to reroute their international flights, potentially increasing travel times and costs. The closure comes in the aftermath of a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, further heightening diplomatic tensions between the two countries. Both airlines are working to minimize passenger inconvenience by offering flexible rebooking and refund options.

Key Points: Pakistan Blocks India Airspace Air India IndiGo Reroute Flights

  • Pakistan's NSC decides immediate airspace closure for Indian airlines
  • Diplomatic tensions escalate after Jammu and Kashmir terror attack
  • Flights to North America, Europe, UK impacted
  • Airlines offer flexible rebooking options
2 min read

Air India, IndiGo reroute international flights after Pakistan shuts airspace for India

Pakistan closes airspace for Indian airlines after Pahalgam terror attack, forcing Air India and IndiGo to seek alternative international routes

"The safety of our customers and crew remains top priority - Air India Statement"

New Delhi, April 24

Leading carriers Air India and IndiGo on Thursday announced that their international flights will take an alternative extended route, after Pakistan closed its airspace for India amid rising diplomatic tensions after the deadly Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir.

Air India said that due to the announced restriction of Pakistan airspace for all Indian airlines, it is expected that some Air India flights to or from North America, UK, Europe, and Middle East will take an alternative extended route.

"Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to our passengers due to this unforeseen airspace closure that is outside our control. We would like to reiterate that at Air India, the safety of our customers and crew remains top priority,” the airline said in a post on social media platform X.

Meanwhile, IndiGo also said in a post on X that due to the sudden announcement of airspace closure by Pakistan, "a few of our international flights are being impacted".

"We understand the inconvenience this may cause, and our teams are doing their best to help you reach your destination at the earliest. We encourage you to check the latest flight status. If your flight is impacted, please explore flexible rebooking options, or claim a refund through our website," said the low-cost carrier in its update on social media.

The high-level emergency meeting of Pakistan's National Security Committee (NSC), chaired by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif on Thursday afternoon, seconded the recommendations made by the Pakistan's Ministry of Foreign Affairs and decided an immediate closure of its airspace for India.

Islamabad also said that India's decision to suspend the Indus Waters Treaty (IWT) will be considered as an "act of war", stating that Pakistan will use its national power to tackle any unilateral decision taken by India in this matter.

- IANS

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