Pakistan’s decision to shut down airspace was heavy
The impact of increasing tension between India and Pakistan is now clear on the international air routes. After the recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Kashmir, the tall in relations between the two countries has now reached the sky. Pakistan closed its airspace for Indian aircraft, but now it has to bear the brunt of it. Many foreign airlines, including not only India, but also in Germany and Air France of France, are shying away from flying over Pakistan.
They say that due to security reasons, they have covered distance from Pakistan airspace. The Lufthansa Group issued a statement saying that it will not fly from Pakistan airspace at the moment. This has not only increased the distance and cost of flights, but there is also a huge decline in overfly fees received by Pakistan. Air France has also banned flight over Pakistan. The company has set new avenues for flights to India, Bangkok and Ho Chi Minh, which makes these flights feel more time and fuel.
What is the effect on which airline?
Lufthansa’s flight LH760 (Frankfurt to Delhi) had to fly about an hour more on Sunday. Flights of British Airways, Swiss International and Emirates were also seen bypassing Pakistan and turning from the Arabian Sea towards Delhi. There has been no official comment from British Airways and Emirates.
How much loss to Pakistan?
While Pakistan has shut down its aircraft for Indian aircraft, the foreign aircraft is now watching that path. This will affect the overflight fees received to Pakistan, which is up to hundreds of dollars on every flight. This earnings are now seen slipping from Pakistan’s hand. India has shut down its aircraft for Pakistani airlines. Along with this, trade and special visa plans from Pakistan have also been suspended.