Air India is reportedly expecting to face around $600 million in additional costs if a ban from Pakistani airspace lasts for 12 months, a company letter seen by Reuters details.
The letter seen by the media outlet also reportedly states that the flag-carrier has asked India’s government to compensate it for the financial loss.
The closure of Pakistan's airspace to all Indian registered aircraft has impacted services from India to Europe, North America and parts of the Middle East, which rely on Pakistan's airspace. According to a NOTAM issued by the Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority, the ban will remain in force until May 23, 2025, at the earliest.
In a post on X (formally twitter), Air India stated that due to these restrictions it is expected that some flights will be forced to take an alternative “extended" route. “We would like to reiterate that at Air India, the safety of our customers and crew remains top priority,” the airline added. Flight times to Europe have been extended by around one hour each way, with some flights to the US, which were direct, now have a fuel stop in Europe.
Reuters also stated that a source with direct knowledge of the matter, said Air India's letter was sent after the government asked its executives to assess the impact of the airspace ban on Indian carriers.
The Indian government is considering options to reduce the hit to the airline industry from the closure of Pakistan's airspace, three other people familiar with the matter said.