Pakistan shuts airspace amid Indian drills near border

Pakistan has decided to partially close its airspace along the Indian border for two days, from October 28 to 29, according to a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), 24NewsHD TV channel reported on Monday.

According to the channel report, the NOTAM, circulated to all airlines and aviation companies, states that the country’s airspace will remain closed daily from 6 am to 9 am during the two days, with a temporary three-hour suspension of flight operations each morning.

The sources within the Civil Aviation Authority said the decision to restrict airspace has been made for security reasons, with enhanced aerial surveillance being implemented amid India’s ongoing military exercise, “Trishul”.

Aviation officials said that several T-routes, specific flight corridors, will remain closed during the period, while controlled flights will continue on other routes under air traffic supervision.

Following the NOTAM, central and southern air routes over Pakistan will experience temporary closures, and international carriers have been instructed to adopt alternative flight paths during the restriction period.

Officials said the closure could potentially affect routes passing through Lahore, Rahim Yar Khan, and Karachi, though most domestic operations are expected to continue with minor adjustments.

“The decision to impose temporary restrictions was taken purely on security grounds,” a senior civil aviation official said, confirming that the measure will remain in effect for 48 hours only.

Pakistan’s airspace has previously been partially closed during periods of regional tension or major military activities along the eastern frontier.

Reporter: Tayyab Saif