Flights from Delhi and other northern cities will take longer, and ticket prices are likely to rise by 8-12% shortly. This is because Pakistan has closed its airspace to Indian airlines in response to India’s actions after the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, which killed 26 tourists.

Airlines like Air India and IndiGo have warned passengers about possible delays after Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian airlines. Air India posted on X that because of the new airspace restrictions, some of its flights to and from North America, the UK, Europe, and the Middle East might take longer routes. Passengers should expect delays and plan their trips accordingly.

Air India posted: “Due to the restriction of Pakistan’s airspace for all Indian airlines, some of our flights to and from North America, the UK, Europe, and the Middle East may take longer alternative routes. We regret the inconvenience caused to passengers due to this unexpected airspace closure, which is beyond our control. We want to assure our passengers that the safety of our customers and crew is our top priority.”

IndiGo also issued a travel advisory for passengers, stating: "Due to the ongoing situation and the closure of Pakistan’s airspace, some international flight schedules may be affected. We are working to minimize the inconvenience," IndiGo posted on X.

On Thursday, Pakistan closed its airspace to Indian-owned or operated airlines in response to India’s actions following the deadly Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 tourists. As a result, India-registered aircraft and planes owned or leased by Indian operators are now prohibited from using Pakistani airspace.

About the Pahalgam terror attack

At least 28 people were killed and more than 60 others injured after terrorists opened fire on a group of tourists in Baisaran Valley, Pahalgam, located in Jammu and Kashmir's Anantnag district on Tuesday. The Pahalgam terror attack took place on Tuesday evening and has triggered nationwide outrage and condemnation.

The Resistance Front (TRF), a terror outfit believed to be a proxy of the Pakistan-based Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT), has claimed responsibility for the assault. The timing of the attack, just days ahead of the annual Amarnath Yatra, during the visit of US Vice President JD Vance, and shortly after 26/11 accused Tahawwur Rana was extradited to India, has raised major concerns over possible international coordination and intelligence failures.