Air France and Lufthansa have suspended flights over Pakistan airspace due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.
The decision follows a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on 22 April, which claimed 26 lives.
Last week Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian airlines and Indian-owned carriers. The attack has reignited longstanding conflicts, prompting major airlines to prioritize passenger safety by rerouting flights.
Pahalgam Attack
The Pahalgam attack, attributed by India to Pakistan-sponsored militants, has led to a sharp deterioration in India-Pakistan relations.
Pakistan denies these claims and has called for a neutral investigation. In response to the attack, Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian airlines on April 24, 2025.
India reciprocated by barring Pakistani carriers from its airspace from April 30 to May 23, 2025.
Decision by Air France and Lufthansa
While no formal mandate requires international airlines to avoid Pakistani airspace, carriers like Air France and Lufthansa are acting cautiously.
Air France stated, “Due to recent tensions between India and Pakistan, the airline has decided to suspend overflight of Pakistan until further notice.”
Lufthansa Group, including Swiss International Air Lines, also followed suit, telling Reuters it is “avoiding Pakistani airspace until further notice.”
Other airlines, such as British Airways and Emirates, are also rerouting flights, often navigating over the Arabian Sea to reach destinations like Delhi.
These changes are driven by the airlines’ risk assessments, despite no formal Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) mandating avoidance of Pakistani airspace for international carriers.
Impact on Global Aviation
The decision to avoid Pakistani airspace has tangible consequences for airlines and passengers. Flight tracking data shows that rerouting has extended flight times.
For instance, Lufthansa’s Frankfurt-to-Delhi flight LH760 took nearly an hour longer on Sunday 4 May. Longer routes mean higher fuel costs, which could lead to increased ticket prices. Airlines may also adjust schedules to accommodate these changes.
Pakistan, meanwhile, faces economic repercussions. Overflight fees, charged for each plane crossing its airspace, are a significant revenue source. With major carriers avoiding the region, these fees are drying up, adding pressure to Pakistan’s economy.
Geopolitical Tensions Fuel Uncertainty
The Pakistan airspace restrictions are part of a broader escalation. India has suspended the Indus Waters Treaty and heightened military readiness along the border.
For now, passengers should expect longer flights and potential delays on routes to South Asia. As tensions between India and Pakistan remain fluid, airlines will continue to monitor the situation closely.
In conclusion, Air France and Lufthansa’s decision to avoid Pakistan airspace reflects the aviation industry’s commitment to safety amid geopolitical uncertainty.
While this ensures passenger security, it serves to highlight the far-reaching impact of regional conflicts on global travel.
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