As tensions between India and Pakistan escalate, several international airlines have suspended flights to both countries, reflecting growing security concerns. Emirates, Etihad Airways, and Qatar Airways have all announced cancellations and delays in their operations, with Emirates postponing all flights to Pakistan until May 10, 2025.
The conflict intensified following an Indian military operation that targeted various locations in Pakistan, prompting a counterattack from Pakistani forces. This series of events has led to heightened security measures and airspace restrictions, significantly affecting air travel across South Asia.
On May 6, 2025, Etihad Airways announced the recall of its flights scheduled for Pakistan, which included the cancellation of services to major cities such as Karachi, Lahore, and Islamabad. The airline's flight EY297, for instance, was among those canceled on May 7. Meanwhile, Qatar Airways has temporarily suspended all flights to Pakistan due to the closure of the country’s airspace, which has further complicated travel plans for many passengers.
According to reports, Emirates confirmed that flights from Dubai to various cities in Pakistan, including Sialkot, Lahore, Islamabad, and Peshawar, are also affected. The airline stated, "All flights due to current security concerns to Pakistan will remain postponed until May 10." This suspension is part of a broader trend, as India has halted 25 international flight routes that previously crossed its airspace into Pakistan.
As the situation continues to develop, airlines are closely monitoring the evolving circumstances, with additional disruptions likely. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), confirming the closure of 27 airports in India, which has resulted in the cancellation of over 430 domestic flights. This disruption has caused significant chaos in air travel across the region.
On May 8, 2025, the airspace over Pakistan and the western corridor of India was largely devoid of civilian aircraft, as airlines avoided the sensitive zones. Flight tracking data from Flightradar24 indicated that operations at various airports in northern India were suspended, further complicating the travel landscape.
Air India, in response to the widespread cancellations, announced that it would offer full refunds for canceled flights and a one-time waiver on rescheduling fees for tickets booked on impacted flights until May 10. Additionally, the airline has expressed gratitude for the selfless service of military personnel, offering them similar refunds and waivers for flights booked until May 31.
IndiGo and SpiceJet have also been affected by the changing airspace conditions. IndiGo informed passengers that their services to and from key cities like Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, and Chandigarh were being disrupted. The airline announced a full waiver of change and cancellation fees for travel to and from Srinagar until May 22, 2025, for bookings made prior to April 22.
Meanwhile, SpiceJet has suspended flights to and from Dharamsala, Leh, Jammu, and Srinagar until further notice. Akasa Air has issued a travel advisory in light of the current situation, although it has not specified affected routes.
In the UAE, the impact of the India-Pakistan tensions was felt acutely, with several flights from Dubai to major Pakistani cities being canceled. Emirates flight EK 513 from Dubai to New Delhi was among those affected. A total of 13 flights from the UAE to Pakistan have been canceled, including services to cities such as Multan, Lahore, Karachi, and Faisalabad.
Etihad Airways has also reported cancellations of flights between Abu Dhabi and key Pakistani cities, while FlyDubai confirmed the temporary suspension of flights between Dubai and Karachi. The airline stated that flights to and from Islamabad and Lahore had also been canceled.
As the situation continues to evolve, airlines are urging travelers to stay informed and check with their carriers for the latest updates. The ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan have not only disrupted air travel but have also raised concerns about safety and security in the region.
With airlines taking precautionary measures, it remains to be seen how long these disruptions will last and what further actions may be taken by both governments. The escalation of military actions and the subsequent airline cancellations highlight the fragility of peace in the region.
As tensions simmer, the global aviation community watches closely, aware that the ramifications of this conflict could extend far beyond the immediate region. Travelers planning to fly to or from India and Pakistan are advised to remain vigilant and flexible with their travel plans.
In this uncertain climate, both airlines and passengers are left grappling with the immediate consequences of rising geopolitical tensions. The hope remains that diplomatic efforts will soon restore stability and normalcy to air travel in the region.
