Following Pakistan government’s announcement to immediately close its airspace to all Indian-owned and Indian-operated airlines after the Pahalgam terror attack, several flight routes have been significantly altered, leading to extended flight durations and the possibility of technical stops.

In such a situation, to ensure continued passenger comfort, safety, and regulatory compliance, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has directed all airline operators to implement enhanced passenger handling measures with immediate effect.

All airlines have been asked to treat this directive as mandatory. Failure to comply may attract regulatory action under the applicable Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR). This directive is effective immediately and will remain in force until further notice.

DGCA’s mandatory directives for airlines

Transparent Communication

Passengers must be proactively informed about route changes, extended travel times, and any technical halts during their journey. This communication should occur at check-in, boarding, and via digital alerts.

Enhanced In-Flight Services

Airlines are required to revise catering based on the actual block time, ensuring adequate food, hydration, and special meal availability throughout the flight, including any technical stopovers.

Medical Readiness

Carriers must ensure onboard medical supplies are sufficient and verify the availability of emergency services at potential technical halt airports.

Customer Support Preparedness

Call centres and customer service teams must be ready to handle delays, missed connections, and provide assistance or compensation as required by applicable regulations.

Operational Coordination

Seamless coordination is essential among flight operations, customer service, ground handling, inflight services, and medical partners.

Airlines reroute International Flights after Pakistan shuts Airspace for India

Indian carriers announced earlier this week that their international flights to or from North America, UK, Europe, and the Middle East will now move through alternative extended route after Pakistan closed its airspace for all Indian-owned and Indian-operated airlines following the Pahalgam terror attack which claimed 26 lives.

With Pakistan closing off its airspace to Indian carriers, airlines are facing longer durations and higher fuel burn for westward international flights taking off from north India — factors that could lead to a hike in airfares. Airspace restrictions are likely to result in delays and rescheduling of flights on multiple international routes operated by Indian airlines.

“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 an X post.

IndiGo shared on X, “Due to the sudden announcement of air space closure by Pakistan, a few of our international flights are being impacted. We understand the inconvenience this may cause and our teams are doing their best to help you reach your destination at the earliest.”

A SpiceJet spokesperson told media that the airline’s flights to the UAE from North India will now operate via alternative routes. As a result, these flights will carry additional fuel to account for the longer flying time.