New Delhi: Several international airlines have chosen to avoid using Pakistan’s airspace due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following terrorist attacks in Jammu and Kashmir. Major airlines such as Air France, British Airways, Emirates, and Lufthansa have indicated this change, based on statements from the airlines and flight tracking data.
This shift in flight paths coincides with a response to violence attributed to a Pakistan-backed terrorist organization, which recently resulted in 26 civilian deaths in Pahargam. Following this incident, India has restricted its airspace to Pakistani airlines, while Pakistan is managing flights that may also fly over Indian territory.
Which airlines are avoiding Pak Airspace
Flight tracking information from Flightradar24 revealed that Lufthansa’s flight LH760 from Frankfurt to New Delhi took a longer route, circumventing Pakistan and taking almost an hour longer on Sunday. A representative from Lufthansa stated to Reuters that the airline is “avoiding Pakistan’s airspace until further notice,” and plans to adapt their routes based on regional developments.
Additionally, British Airways, Swiss Airlines, and various Emirates flights have redirected their paths north towards Delhi after crossing the Arabian Sea to evade Pakistani airspace. Air France announced its decision to suspend operations in Pakistan due to the “recent evolution of tensions.” The airline has adjusted its schedules for destinations such as Delhi, Bangkok, and Ho Chi Minh City, acknowledging longer travel times as a result.
While British Airways, Swiss Airlines, and Emirates have not formally commented, the diversion reflects a wider industry concern. The longer routes may increase fuel costs and operational distances for these airlines.
How will this move affect Pakistan?
These modified flight routes are expected to negatively impact Pakistan’s revenue from overflight fees, which can amount to several hundred dollars for each flight, influenced by the aircraft’s weight and the distances involved. In a related note, the central bank’s reserves in Pakistan stand at $10.2 billion, which is insufficient to cover even two months of imports.
