Pakistan has issued a nationwide NOTAM (Notice to Airmen), completely closing its airspace to all types of air traffic. The directive, identified as A0320/25, was filed at 2215 UTC on May 9, 2025, and is currently effective until 0700 UTC on May 10, 2025 (EST), unless extended.
Key Details from the NOTAM:
- Airspace Affected: Entire Pakistani FIR (Flight Information Region)
- Airports: OPKR (Karachi FIR) and OPLR (Lahore FIR)
- Flight Levels: From surface (000) to unlimited (999)
- Reason: Not explicitly stated, but the notice confirms:
“PAKISTAN AIRSPACE WILL REMAIN CLSD FOR ALL TYPE OF TFC (Traffic).
This action suggests a complete halt of civilian and potentially military overflight, possibly indicating a rapidly developing security or military situation.
Implications:
- Major international flight reroutes expected across the Middle East, South Asia, and Europe-Asia corridors.
- Potential delays and cancellations for flights to/from or over Pakistan.
- Regional tensions may be escalating, particularly amid recent reports of increased cross-border activity.
