India Faces Over $47 Million Loss as Pakistan Airspace Remains Closed for 19 Days

Indian airlines have suffered losses exceeding $47 million due to the continued closure of Pakistan’s airspace, which has now entered its 19th day. The airspace suspension has led to the cancellation of over 2,000 flights, causing significant disruption to the country’s aviation operations.

According to sources, major airports in cities like Amritsar, Delhi, Mumbai, and Ahmedabad have been affected, with flight routes being rerouted over long distances. The extended detours, combined with rising fuel prices, have resulted in increased operational costs for airlines, including higher crew expenses caused by cascading delays across their networks.

Despite a cease-fire agreement between the two nations, “None of the 24 Indian airports thus remain open,” and the aviation sector has been further strained by the cancellation of 444 flights in a single day. Additionally, flight cancellations at Srinagar Airport have averaged 65 daily, with the airport closed for seven consecutive days. Both Leh-Kushok and Jammu airports have also reported complete flight suspensions, grounding all 30 scheduled flights.

Industry analysts have labeled this situation as unprecedented, given that there are no active hostilities between the two countries at present. The ongoing airspace closure has puzzled many, leading to growing public dissatisfaction and increasing frustration among aviation stakeholders.

The mounting disruptions have raised concerns for Indian airlines, which were already facing financial challenges prior to the crisis. Experts warn that the prolonged airspace closure could further strain the aviation industry and hinder broader economic recovery efforts in India.

With no diplomatic resolution in sight, the economic toll on Indian aviation is expected to increase as long as flight corridors remain closed and airport operations are suspended.