Daijiworld Media Network – New Delhi

New Delhi, May 5: In the wake of the Pakistan-sponsored terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which left 26 people dead, major international airlines including Air France and Lufthansa have stopped flying over Pakistani airspace, citing safety concerns.

Air France, in an official statement, confirmed the decision: “Due to recent tensions between India and Pakistan, the airline has decided to suspend overflight of Pakistan until further notice.”

German carrier Lufthansa has followed suit, announcing that its aircraft are now “avoiding Pakistani airspace,” even if it results in longer flight times for several routes to Asia. The airline added that it is closely monitoring the evolving regional situation.

Flight tracking platforms show that other international airlines, including British Airways, Swiss International Air Lines, and Emirates, have also altered their flight paths to bypass Pakistan, opting for longer, fuel-intensive routes to ensure passenger safety.

The decision is expected to severely impact Pakistan's aviation earnings, especially from overflight charges, a key source of revenue for the cash-strapped nation.

Meanwhile, Indian carriers have also adjusted their flight routes. IndiGo announced that its international flights would now operate on extended sectors due to Pakistan's closure of its airspace to Indian carriers. The airline has cancelled flights to Almaty and Tashkent, stating that these destinations are now beyond the operational range of its current fleet.

Air India also confirmed changes to its international operations. Flights to and from North America, the UK, Europe, and the Middle East will now take longer alternative routes, leading to increased fuel consumption and operational costs.

The developments follow heightened diplomatic tensions between India and Pakistan after the brutal terror attack in Pahalgam, which has drawn sharp condemnation from New Delhi and prompted international concern.