Pahalgam Attack: Lufthansa, Air France Take Longer Routes To Avoid Pak Airspace

Leading global airlines Air France and Lufthansa have stopped flying over Pakistani airspace to ensure flight safety amid escalating regional tensions after the Pakistan-sponsored terror attack killed 26 people in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir.

Air France issued a statement saying, “Due to recent tensions between India and Pakistan, the airline has decided to suspend overflight of Pakistan until further notice.”

German carrier Lufthansa also confirmed that its aircraft are ‘avoiding Pakistani airspace until further notice’.

International Carriers Alter Flight Paths

Flight tracking data showed international airlines rerouting to avoid Pakistani airspace. Many flights now take longer, circuitous paths to steer clear of potential risks.

Lufthansa said it is avoiding Pakistan even though it leads to longer flight times on routes to Asia. The airline added that it is closely monitoring the situation.

British Airways, Swiss International Air Lines, and Emirates have also started rerouting their flights. Tracking data showed them turning away from Pakistan despite the added fuel cost.

Pakistan’s Overflight Revenue Set To Fall

The shift is likely to impact Pakistan’s earnings from overflight fees. With major global airlines avoiding its skies, the cash-strapped country faces further economic strain.

Indian carriers Air India and IndiGo have also altered routes for their international flights. This follows Pakistan’s decision to close its airspace to India amid rising diplomatic friction over the terror attack.

IndiGo said its international routes will require longer sectors. The airline warned of slight schedule changes due to the diversion.

IndiGo cancelled flights to Almaty and Tashkent, stating these destinations are now outside the operational range of its current fleet.

Air India confirmed that its flights to and from North America, UK, Europe, and the Middle East will now take longer routes. The move will result in higher fuel consumption and extended travel times.

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