Indian flights may have to change routes as Pak imposes curbs on airspace

New Delhi: Commercial flights from India will have to face considerable restrictions in Pakistani airspace, after India conducted surgical strikes across the Line of Control (LoC) in response to the Uri terror attacks.

According to reports, Pakistan has banned low-level flying over its airspace that could result in rerouting of flights to the US, Europe and the Gulf.

A note to airmen (NOTAM) issued by Pakistani aviation authorities says all flights flying over Lahore will now have to fly above 29,000 feet while crossing Lahore.
These restrictions will be for the whole month of October, says the NOTAM.

Reports said that lower level of airspace or flight levels have been reserved for Pakistani fighter aircraft. This means that Indian flights will have to opt for longer and safer routes which can delay flights, a DGCA official was quoted as saying.

Pakistan International Airlines (PIA) is the only airline that operates between India and Pakistan, but Indian flights to the Gulf, Far East, Middle East and Europe often fly over the neighbouring country.