Impact on IndiGo and Air India Flights

Due to the sudden closure of Pakistan's airspace to Indian carriers, IndiGo has announced the suspension of its flights from Delhi to Tashkent and Almaty until at least May 7, 2025. This decision comes as the alternative routes required are beyond the operational range of IndiGo's current fleet of Airbus A320 family planes, adding 80-90 minutes to flight times.

Air India's Adaptive Measures

Air India officials have stated that the impact on their operations has been minimal, drawing from their experience in 2019. However, flights to North America and Europe may now require fuelling stops, depending on daily wind conditions and aircraft load, potentially increasing travel time and costs.

Global Airlines on Alert

Foreign carriers, including Qatar Airways and KLM, are closely monitoring the situation. While Pakistan has not imposed restrictions on foreign airlines, the geopolitical tension may lead some to reassess their flight paths over the region, reminiscent of the 2019 airspace closure.

Travel Implications

Passengers can expect longer flight durations and a possible 30-40% increase in airfares for new bookings. The aviation community remains vigilant, prioritizing safety while navigating these challenging airspace restrictions.