Pakistan Partially Closes Karachi, Lahore Airspace Till May 31

Pakistan has closed its airspace in Karachi and Lahore in specific regions from 8 am to 4pm until May 31. However, normal flight operations will continue. Reportedly, that the decision has been taken due to security reasons. However, commercial flight operations will continue via alternative routes, and air traffic controllers will guide aircraft accordingly to ensure smooth operations.

Earlier on Wednesday, India issued Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) closing its airspace for Civilian and Military aircrafts owned, operated and leased by Pakistan amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan in the wake of the Pahalgam terror attack. The closure is effective from April 30 to May 23, 2025, similar decision was taken by Pakistan to shut its airspace for Indian flights last week.

Meanwhile, India has extended the deadline for Pakistani nationals to return home after Islamabad delayed processing their entry at the Wagah-Attari border. Originally set for April 30, the new indefinite deadline comes as a humanitarian gesture following requests from stranded Pakistani citizens. Dozens remain stuck at the border as their own government continues to create hurdles in their repatriation. While India has kept the border open for returning Pakistanis, all other cross-border movement remains suspended.