Indian Aircrafts to lose $600 million in one year due to Pakistan’s Airspace Restrictions
NEW DELHI: Following Pakistan’s decision to ban Indian aircraft from its airspace, Air India has expressed concern that the ongoing restriction on its flights could result in an additional financial burden of approximately $600 million over the next year.
The airline has written to the Indian government, requesting compensation for these losses through a “subsidy model.”
According to the airline, if the airspace ban remains in place, it will face an annual loss exceeding 50 billion Indian rupees. The airline has asked the Ministry of Civil Aviation to take immediate action to mitigate the impact of these extended restrictions.
According to media reports, approximately 700 flights have been impacted by Pakistan’s restriction of its airspace to Indian airlines, causing Indian carriers to change several routes connecting India to Europe, North America, Central Asia, and the Middle East.
This is the eighth day since Pakistan barred its airspace to India. Furthermore, passengers flying to Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Amritsar now have to pay an additional fee for their tickets. This has made things much more difficult for airlines.
The airspace shutdown is producing significant financial and travel challenges for India, and there is currently no apparent solution. The lengthier flights also mean that airline employees must work longer hours, putting additional strain on the crew. Many connecting planes are delayed.