Air India, IndiGo and other airlines on Thursday (April 24) issued official travel advisories following Pakistan’s decision to close its airspace to Indian airlines, a move triggered by India’s strong response to the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians. As a result, Indian flights heading to destinations in Europe, the US, UK and the Middle East will now have to take longer alternative routes, leading to higher fuel and operational costs. However, foreign airlines continue to operate without any disruptions.
Airspace restrictions are likely to result in delays and rescheduling of flights on multiple international routes operated by Indian airlines.
Air India issues travel advisory
Air India, in a statement posted on X, said, “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 has advised passengers to verify their flight status by contacting its helpline at 011-69329333 and 011-69329999, or by visiting http://www.airindia.com.
IMPORTANT UPDATE:
— Air India (@airindia) April 24, 2025
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…
SpiceJet flights to operate via alternate routes
SpiceJet has not issued an official travel advisory yet. However, in an interview with Financial Express online, the airline’s spokesperson confirmed that flights from North India to the UAE will be rerouted via alternate paths.
“Our flights to the UAE from North India will operate via alternate routes. As a result, these flights will carry additional fuel to account for the longer flying time. There is no significant impact on our flight schedules,” SpiceJet Spokesperson told Financial Express Online.
IndiGo’s international flights impacted
Additionally, IndiGo, in a statement posted on X, said, “Due to the sudden announcement of air space 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. We deeply value your patience and understanding, and remain committed to supporting our fellow citizens during these challenging times,” the airline added.
Akasa Air issues advisory
“In light of the recent tragic incident in Pahalgam, we are closely monitoring the situation using all available resources. On the morning of 24th April 2025, we proactively decided to reroute any flights expected to fly over Pakistan airspace as a precautionary measure. This has no significant impact to our operations and will not cause any inconvenience to our passengers. We will continue to assess the situation daily and make any necessary adjustments to our flight
operations to maintain the highest levels of safety that are central to our operations at all times,” Akasa Air said in a statement.
Pahalgam Terror Attack: India intensifies pressure on Pakistan
In response to the Pahalgam attack, India has taken a series of strong retaliatory measures, including the closure of Pakistan’s airspace. On Thursday, India officially suspended the Indus Water Treaty of 1960, signaling a hardening of its stance.
Furthermore, India has closed the Attari Integrated Check Post and revoked Pakistan’s access to the SAARC Visa Exemption Scheme, instructing Pakistani nationals holding SAARC visas to leave India within 48 hours.
Additionally, both countries will see a reduction in diplomatic staff, with each nation allowed no more than 30 officials, effective from May 1. A similar reduction took place following the Pulwama terror attack in 2020.
