NEW DELHI: India has extended its ban on Pakistani aircraft from entering Indian airspace until August 23, 2025, amid ongoing tensions between the two countries.

Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, announced the decision via a post on X, “Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) restricting Pakistani aircraft from entering Indian airspace has been officially extended until 23rd August 2025,” he stated.

“This extension reflects continued strategic considerations and aligns with prevailing security protocols. Stay tuned for further updates,” the minister added.

The announcement follows Pakistan’s decision last week to prolong its own airspace restrictions on Indian carriers until August 24. According to the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA), the ban will remain in place until 5:19 a.m. IST on August 24.

In a related development, India has also issued a separate NOTAM for a large-scale Indian Air Force (IAF) exercise scheduled to take place in Rajasthan from July 23 to 25. The exercise will span areas from Barmer to Jodhpur, near the India-Pakistan border.

A NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) is a formal notification used to alert pilots and airlines of temporary airspace restrictions, often implemented to ensure civilian safety during military operations. Similar advisories were issued during previous periods of heightened tensions with Pakistan to prevent civilian aircraft from entering potentially sensitive zones.

The latest airspace restrictions come in the backdrop of India’s ongoing ‘Operation Sindoor’, launched on May 7 following a terrorist attack in Pahalgam that claimed the lives of 26 civilians. The attack was attributed to Pakistan-backed militants.

The situation continues to be monitored closely, with further updates expected as developments unfold.