IndiGo Flight Faces Turbulence, Denied Pakistani Airspace Entry, Lands Safely in Srinagar

IndiGo Flight Rerouted to Srinagar After Denial of Pakistani Airspace Access

Written by: Supriya Kadu

Edited by: Pinky Deshmukh

Last Updated: May 24, 2025

Summary: A flight by IndiGo from Delhi to Srinagar experienced severe turbulence and was not allowed to enter Pakistani airspace for emergencies, showing how geopolitical issues impact flight safety.

On May 21, an IndiGo flight from Delhi to Srinagar faced a strong hailstorm and extreme turbulence near Pathankot. To ensure passenger safety, the pilot asked permission from Lahore Air Traffic Control (ATC) to briefly enter Pakistani airspace to avoid hazardous weather conditions. However, the request was denied due to an existing ban on Indian-registered aircraft entering Pakistani airspace.

The plane, which carried 220 passengers, debated returning to Delhi before deciding to continue to Srinagar. According to Indian Air Force authorities, the aircraft was assisted in planning its route detour by contacting Delhi Area Control before landing safely at Srinagar International Airport.

This comes amid growing tensions about the airspace limitations between India and Pakistan, which have been prolonged until June 24, 2025. These limitations continue to affect the airline operations and flight times of both nations.

The refusal of emergency access to airspace during a critical scenario highlights the complexities and constraints that airlines encounter when operating in geopolitically volatile countries.