India-Pakistan Tensions Force Airlines to Reroute Flights
As tensions between India and Pakistan escalate following a deadly attack in Kashmir, global carriers including Lufthansa, Air France and Swiss International Air Lines are rerouting flights to avoid Pakistani airspace.
Airspace restrictions imposed by both countries are disrupting international travel between Europe and Asia and placing financial strain on airlines—particularly Air India.
Newsweek has reached out the foreign ministries of India and Pakistan for comment.
Why It Matters
The airspace closures highlight how quickly geopolitical tensions can impinge on global air travel. Pakistan's position along a key corridor connecting Europe and Southeast Asia makes it especially critical to international flight operations. These restrictions are not only complicating logistics but also placing added pressure on financially fragile carriers, including those undergoing restructuring.
What To Know
The Lufthansa Group announced that both Lufthansa and its subsidiary Swiss are "avoiding Pakistani airspace until further notice," citing security concerns. Air France echoed the move, stating it had suspended overflights because of the "recent evolution of tensions" between India and Pakistan.
Flight tracking data showed flights from British Airways, Swiss and Emirates taking northern detours over the Arabian Sea to reach Delhi, while avoiding Pakistani territory. An X post by user Chopsyturvey remarked that "Pakistan airspace appears like a no-fly zone by all airlines."
The diplomatic crisis stems from a deadly attack last month in Indian-administered Kashmir. India blamed Pakistan-based militants for the violence, an allegation Pakistan denied. In response, Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian aircraft and suspended trade and special visas for Indian citizens. India retaliated by banning Pakistani airlines from its airspace.
The tensions have forced route adjustments across the region, leading to longer flight times and higher operating costs.
Air India Hit Hardest
The overflight ban is especially damaging to Air India. Indian media report the carrier could lose up to $900 million by the end of the year. Already in the midst of restructuring under new owner Tata Group, Air India is reportedly seeking government assistance to cope with the added burden of rerouted flights and rising fuel expenses.
