Major Airlines Suspend Operations in Pakistani Airspace Amid Rising India-Pakistan Tensions

Several major international airlines including Air France, Lufthansa, and Swiss International Air Lines have suspended operations in Pakistani airspace amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack last month.

The decision by these carriers to avoid Pakistani airspace could result in significant economic losses for Pakistan, which collects substantial overflight fees from international airlines.

Air France has officially confirmed its decision, stating in a public announcement: “The airline has decided to suspend overflight of Pakistan until further notice,” citing the “recent evolution of tensions” between India and Pakistan .

The French carrier noted that it was altering flight schedules and plans for destinations such as Delhi, Bangkok, and Ho Chi Minh City, resulting in longer flight times.

Flight tracking data shows that other major carriers including British Airways, Swiss International Air Lines, and Emirates are also avoiding Pakistani airspace, opting to fly over the Arabian Sea before turning north toward Delhi .

The Lufthansa Group has similarly announced that both Lufthansa and its subsidiary Swiss are “avoiding Pakistani airspace until further notice” due to security concerns . According to flight tracking data, Lufthansa Flight LH760 from Frankfurt to New Delhi had to fly nearly an hour longer on Sunday because it took a longer route .

Aviation experts note that the rerouting is likely to cause not only operational challenges for the airlines but also significant financial impact on Pakistan. The country charges substantial fees for the use of its airspace by international carriers, with payments often made in foreign currency – a critical source of revenue for Pakistan’s economy.