6 flights cancelled due to Pakistan air space closure

The closure of the Pakistan air space has caused cancellation of six international flights to and from Delhi`s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport, here on Saturday. Pakistan has banned Indian aircraft from using its airspace and its Air Traffic Control (ATC) has barred flying of any aircraft below 32,000 feet.

The air space restriction by Pakistan impacted traffic at the IGI Airport with 6 international cancellations -- 3 departures and 3 arrivals. On Friday, the restriction had led to cancellation of 11 international flights -- 5 departures and 6 arrivals. 

The commercial airspace in Pakistan was partially opened on Friday. The original NOTAM (notice to airmen) issued on Wednesday said the restriction was applicable until Friday morning. However, a fresh NOTAM for international flights over Pakistan was issued later. It restricted flights until 1.30 p.m. on March 4. 

The development comes days after the Indian Air Force (IAF) chased away intruding Pakistani jets in Jammu and Kashmir`s Nowshera sector. On their part, airlines like Lufthansa and Air India have said the restriction would not have any major impact on their operations.