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Dhaka: As tensions remain high between India and Pakistan following a deadly terrorist attack in Jammu and Kashmir's Pahalgam, international carriers are avoiding Pakistani airspace.
Germany’s Lufthansa Group is "avoiding Pakistani airspace until further notice", read a statement from the airline, adding that it is monitoring developments.
Lufthansa Flight LH760 from Frankfurt to New Delhi had to fly nearly an hour longer on May 4 because it took a longer route, as per reports.
Air France is doing the same, citing the "recent evolution of tensions" between the two South Asian rivals as the reason behind its decision to suspend flights over Pakistan.
"The airline has decided to suspend overflight of Pakistan until further notice," Air France said in a statement, citing the "recent evolution of tensions" between India and Pakistan.
The airline is now modifying its flight schedules to destinations including Delhi, Bangkok, and Ho Chi Minh City—changes that come with extended travel times and operational disruptions.
Reports also said, British Airways, Swiss International Air Lines, and Emirates are turning north towards Delhi to avoid Pakistani airspace, after travelling over the Arabian Sea.
While British Airways and Emirates have yet to issue formal statements, their rerouted flights reflect broader industry caution.
The move will result in longer flight times on some routes to Asia, increasing fuel costs, and significantly cutting into Pakistan’s revenue from overflight fees.
The airspace detours follow retaliatory measures between India and Pakistan after some terrorists opened fire on tourists in Kashmir's Pahalgam, killing 26 people.
India responded to the terrorist attack by closing its airspace to Pakistani carriers, while Pakistan barred Indian-owned or operated aircraft and suspended trade and special visa programs for Indian nationals.
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