The military standoff between India and Pakistan on May 7, 2025, caused significant disruption to airline operations, particularly on routes to and from Europe. More than two dozen international flights were diverted or cancelled due to the airspace closures, while domestic flights were also affected. Find out what the impact of the conflict is on the aviation industry, as well as useful advice for passengers who may face flight schedule changes or cancellations

On the night of May 7, military action intensified between India and Pakistan. In particular, India launched several missile strikes on facilities in Pakistan, in response, Pakistan said that it had shot down five Indian fighter jets, and also indicated that it was preparing retaliatory strikes. These events became one of the largest escalations between these two nuclear-armed countries in more than two decades.

The hostilities forced several airlines to change the routes of their flights to and from Europe. As Reuters notes, based on FlightRadar24 data, many international flights were redirected or canceled.

We will talk about the impact of the confrontation between India and Pakistan on the aviation industry in the world later in this article.

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How many international flights have been affected by the conflict between India and Pakistan?

According to FlightRadar24, more than 20 international flights have been diverted to avoid Pakistani airspace. Also, 52 flights to and from Pakistan have been canceled by Wednesday morning local time. After the fighting began, 57 international flights were in Pakistani airspace.

How has the fighting affected domestic flights?

The fighting has not only affected international flights. Domestic air travel has also been disrupted.

India has closed several airports, including Dharamshala, Leh, Jammu, Srinagar and Amritsar, which has led to the cancellation of flights by airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet and Akasa Air.

In particular, India's leading airline IndiGo announced the cancellation of 165 flights by Saturday morning.

Flights of Air India, SpiceJet and Akasa Air were also canceled as India closed several airports.

Passengers are advised to check the real-time flight status updates on the airlines' websites before heading to the airport.

What is the current situation with the airspace of India and Pakistan?

Images from flight tracking services show almost empty airspace in northwest India and Pakistan, except for a few flights.

Which international carriers have rerouted or canceled flights to India and Pakistan?

As a result of the closure of airspace in the conflict zone, many international airlines have announced changes to their schedules, including:

- KLM: The Dutch airline announced that it would suspend flights over Pakistan until further notice.

- Singapore Airlines: The airline has suspended flights over Pakistani airspace since May 6.

- EVA Air: The Taiwanese carrier is rerouting its flights to and from Europe to avoid war zones, including rerouting a flight from Taipei to Milan with a stop in Vienna for refueling.

- Korean Air: Rerouted its flights from Seoul to Dubai, choosing a southern route via Myanmar, Bangladesh and India.

- Thai Airways: Rerouted its flights to Europe and South Asia.

- Vietnam Airlines: Also said its flights were affected by tensions between India and Pakistan.

- China Airlines rerouted its flights to cities including London, Frankfurt and Rome. Some flights were canceled, while others were rerouted to refuel in Bangkok and Prague.

Some flights from India to Europe have also become longer. For example, a Lufthansa flight from Delhi to Frankfurt has been rerouted, taking a longer route over the Arabian Sea instead of its usual route.

How is the conflict affecting international airlines in general?

The Association of Asia-Pacific Airlines has raised concerns about the impact of the conflict on air travel. In addition to increased costs and cancelled flights, there are serious safety concerns. One of the main risks is GPS spoofing, where global navigation system data is manipulated to throw aircraft off course. This risk is particularly acute when flying over conflict zones.

The changes in flight schedules are making it difficult for airlines to operate on important routes in the Middle East and South Asia, which are already facing numerous problems due to the conflicts in these regions.

What should passengers do if their flight is cancelled or rescheduled? Useful tips

What should passengers do to protect themselves from the consequences of flight cancellations and schedule changes:

1. Monitor flight schedule changes

Regularly check flight information on the airline’s website and through flight tracking applications, such as FlightRadar24 or other similar services.

If your flight is cancelled or rescheduled, you will be informed via SMS or email. You should also regularly check the flight status on the airport website.

2. Consult with the airline

If your flight is cancelled or rescheduled, contact the airline to clarify further actions. Remember that in such situations, companies usually provide alternative options for passengers.

Check whether you are entitled to a refund or compensation, according to the airline’s policy and applicable international standards.

3. Be prepared for longer routes or technical stops

If your flight is diverted, be aware that the journey may be longer or that technical stops may be required for refueling or crew changes. Also consider additional costs for meals or accommodation.

4. Keep all documents

In the event of a flight change or cancellation, keep all tickets, booking confirmations, documents and other evidence that may be useful for obtaining compensation or if you need to contact the airline later.

5. Check security requirements and new regulations

Due to the increased danger in conflict zones, security regulations for air travel may change. This may include restrictions on certain routes or additional security measures at airports.

In the event of unforeseen circumstances, such as a change of route due to military action, make sure you are aware of any changes to air travel regulations and document requirements.

6. Communicate with other passengers and share information

If you are traveling with other passengers, discuss options for further action. Other people may have useful information about alternative routes or changes in flight schedules.

It is important to maintain communication with people who have found themselves in a similar situation, because together you can find a solution faster.

In crisis situations, such as conflicts or hostilities, when flights are rerouted or canceled, it is important to be prepared for changes and remain calm. Checking the status of flights, consulting with the airline and knowing your rights will help you adapt to the situation faster and minimize the negative consequences for your trip to India or Pakistan.

If you find yourself in a difficult situation abroad, seek advice from a migration lawyer. We help to quickly resolve any issues outside your country of origin.

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