India’s Airspace Ban on Pakistan Continues: Long-Haul Flights Delayed, Tourism Impacted: All You Need to Know

Published on
September 23, 2025

India’s aviation authorities have announced the extension of the airspace ban on Pakistani airlines and aircraft until October 24. This latest move, which comes just days after Pakistan imposed a similar extension for Indian carriers, is set to carry the restrictions into their sixth month. The original ban, first enforced on April 30, followed the tragic Pahalgam terror attack on April 22 that claimed the lives of 26 civilians. Initially expected to last a month, the ban has now been prolonged multiple times, signaling a tough stand on security concerns.

This reciprocal move, where both countries have imposed restrictions on each other’s airspace, has now severely impacted the aviation industry. Airlines flying between India and various global destinations, particularly long-haul routes, are facing additional challenges. With Indian carriers no longer able to fly over Pakistan, longer and more costly routes have become a necessity, especially for flights headed to Europe, North America, and the Middle East.

How the Airspace Ban is Hampering Tourism

The ongoing airspace closure is not just an inconvenience for airlines; it’s causing a ripple effect on the tourism sector. For passengers and airlines, the extended routes mean longer flight times, increasing fuel costs, and delays. For many international tourists traveling to India or planning to visit from India, these disruptions could lead to missed connections, heightened travel fatigue, and increased travel expenses. These factors could discourage tourists from choosing India as a travel destination, especially those who prefer shorter, more efficient travel options.

Flight routes from India to key tourism hotspots in Europe, the Middle East, and North America are directly affected. Passengers can expect delays of up to two hours or more, as airlines are forced to reroute their planes on longer paths. This can make long-haul travel less attractive for tourists who seek cost-effective and time-efficient journeys. Moreover, the additional fuel costs may result in higher ticket prices, which could further deter budget-conscious tourists.

Increased Fuel Costs and Airline Struggles

Airlines have been grappling with the financial impact of the airspace ban since it was first enforced. With the requirement to take longer, alternative routes, the costs for airlines have surged. Some international sectors, especially those with longer distances, have been experiencing a fuel increase of 20% or more. The impact is most noticeable on long-haul routes, where extra flight time can stretch well beyond two hours, making already expensive international flights even pricier.

These additional costs inevitably trickle down to passengers, resulting in higher ticket prices, which could influence potential tourists. For instance, travelers from the United States or Europe seeking to visit India might reconsider their trip due to prolonged flight durations and increased fares. This shift could lead to a reduction in inbound tourism, which has already been struggling in the post-pandemic era.

A Ripple Effect on the Tourism Industry

Tourism in India, particularly in key cities like Delhi, Mumbai, and Goa, relies heavily on international visitors. The extension of the airspace ban threatens to derail the recovery of India’s tourism sector, which had been showing promising growth. Foreign tourists are already facing challenges such as flight disruptions, and these airspace bans exacerbate the issue. With Indian airlines increasingly focusing on cost recovery, it’s likely that airlines will need to adjust their flight schedules, creating further inconvenience for tourists.

Tourism boards in India may find themselves in a difficult position. As flight durations increase and fares rise, promoting India as a destination for short holidays or quick getaways becomes harder. Countries that have more direct and efficient air travel options may become more attractive to tourists. India’s tourism industry must brace for potential declines in inbound traffic and may need to rethink its marketing strategy to counterbalance these travel challenges.

Looking Forward to Tourism Recovery

The aviation standoff between India and Pakistan is showing no signs of resolution in the short term. The extended airspace bans are likely to continue impacting the tourism sector for months to come. As long as the flight delays and added fuel costs persist, tourists will feel the burden, both financially and in terms of their overall travel experience. The Indian tourism industry, which was expecting a post-pandemic boost, now faces significant hurdles. As these challenges continue, it’s essential for the government and airlines to find ways to mitigate the impact on travelers, especially those who contribute significantly to India’s tourism economy.