Airlines Take the Long Way as India-Pakistan Rift Endangers Skies

Several international airlines have begun avoiding Pakistan’s airspace following a violent attack in Indian-controlled Kashmir, further illustrating how geopolitical unrest disrupts global aviation.Air France announced its flights would no longer cross Pakistan, citing a spike in tension with India. Adjustments are being made to flight plans, potentially leading to longer travel durations.

Lufthansa and other carriers have joined in rerouting, with British Airways and Emirates opting to fly over the Arabian Sea before heading toward India to avoid Pakistani territory.

This move follows a horrific incident in Kashmir where 26 civilians, many tourists, were killed by militants. India accused Pakistan, who denied any role in the violence.

The fallout led both countries to shut air access to each other and prompted tit-for-tat displays of military strength, such as missile tests and increased security drills.

On Monday, Pakistan conducted its second missile test in three days. Meanwhile, India’s navy executed missile launches aimed at confirming its long-range strike capabilities.

As fears mount, the United Nations has stepped in, urging both nations to exercise restraint. The Secretary-General stressed that a military confrontation would only deepen the crisis.