Pakistan Airspace Closure Causes Rs. 126 Crore Loss

Restrictions on Indian Flights

Pakistan denied Indian planes the use of its airspace following the Pahalgam terror attack in Jammu and Kashmir. This ban caused heavy financial losses to Pakistan. Reports suggest a loss of around Rs. 126 crore. These amounts were stated in reports tabled by Pakistan's Ministry of Defense to its National Assembly.

Details of Financial Loss

The Pakistan Airports Authority reported that the shutdown extended from April 24 to June 20. On this period, losses amounted to 4.10 billion Pakistani rupees, equivalent to approximately Rs. 126 crore in Indian rupees.

  • Flights Impacted: 100 to 150 flights per day
  • Operational Impact: Flight activity decreased by 20%
  • Cause of Revenue Decline: Decreased Indian aircraft charges for flying through Pakistani airspace

History of Airspace Shutdown

The restrictions came after diplomatic tensions subsequent to the Pahalgam attack. India suspended the Indus Waters Treaty and limited Pakistani nationals in India. It also blocked its airspace to Pakistani planes. Pakistan extended its restrictions to August 24.

Pahalgam Terror Attack

The Pahalgam attack killed 26 tourists. India retaliated with a number of actions against Pakistan, blaming it for terrorism support. Among its counteractions, India initiated "Operation Sindoor" to attack terrorist camps within Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir.