Consequences , If India shuts the airspace for Pakistan

If India shuts its airspace to Pakistan, several political, economic, and operational consequences could unfold:

1. Aviation Disruption

For Pakistan: Airlines like PIA (Pakistan International Airlines) and other carriers would have to reroute flights, increasing travel time and fuel costs. Flights from Pakistan to Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia could be severely affected.

For India: Indian air traffic might see slight congestion in eastern or southern corridors due to rerouted Pakistani flights in regional airways.

2. Economic Impact

Pakistan’s airlines may suffer financially due to longer flight durations and higher fuel and crew costs.
Airlines operating international routes over both countries might also face delays and higher operating costs.

3. Diplomatic Tension

Such a move would escalate diplomatic tensions and could be seen as an aggressive act, potentially leading to retaliation by Pakistan (like closing its own airspace to Indian flights).
It could draw international concern, especially from countries whose airlines use the airspace.

4. Precedent and Reciprocity

This has happened before. After the Pulwama attack in 2019, Pakistan closed its airspace to India for months, costing Indian airlines millions. A similar response by Pakistan can be expected if India initiates such a step.

5. Military and Strategic Messaging

The move could serve as a geopolitical signal, expressing discontent or applying pressure on Pakistan over specific issues.