Pakistan Closes Airspace, Forcing India Planes to Fly Longer

Air India regrets the inconvenience caused to our passengers due to this unforeseen airspace closure that is outside our control. We would like to reiterate that at Air India, the safety of our customers and crew remains top priority,

the airline said

In light of the ongoing situation and the closure of Pakistan’s airspace, a few international flight schedules may be impacted. We’re working to minimize the inconvenience.”

IndiGo, which operates flights to the Middle East, said

We understand the inconvenience this may cause, and our teams are doing their best to help you reach your destination at the earliest. We encourage you to check the latest flight status. If your flight is impacted, please explore flexible rebooking options, or claim a refund through our website,

said the low-cost carrier in its update on social media

Due to the announced restriction of Pakistan airspace for all Indian airlines, it is expected that some Air India flights to or from North America, UK, Europe, and Middle East will take an alternative extended route.”

Air India said in a statement

Pakistan declares the Indian Defence, Naval and Air Advisors in Islamabad persona non grata. They are directed to leave Pakistan immediately,

read a statement released by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's office after he convened a rare national security committee meeting, adding

Shehbaz Sharifprime Minister

Any threat to Pakistan's sovereignty and to the security of its people will be met with firm reciprocal measures in all domains,

a statement released by Prime Minister Shehbaz Sharif's office said after the NSC meeting

All cross-border transit from India through this route shall be suspended, without exception,

the statement said

Kaja KallaseU foreign policy chief

The EU stands firm against terrorism,

Kallas said

It is a deliberate and targeted campaign of hate and vilification against students from a particular region and identity,

Khuehami said

Tourists are trying to leave and people in the tourism business — like those who run hotels and or drive taxis — are receiving cancellations,

Adil said

The EU family stands with India in this moment of mourning,

EU ambassador in India Herve Delphin posted on his X account

I say to the whole world: India will identify, track and punish every terrorist and their backer. We will pursue them to the ends of the Earth,

Modi said in his first speech since the attack on Tuesday

This is an extremely tragic and heartbreaking incident. People came here to enjoy but unfortunately lost their lives,

says another woman

Terrorism has no religion — terrorism is neither Hindu nor Muslim,

a domestic tourist visiting the region says