Pakistan has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) announcing the temporary closure of several key air corridors across the country. The move has triggered speculation that Islamabad may be preparing for a major missile test or air-defense military drill in the coming days.

The timing of this decision is being linked to India’s recent successful test of the Agni-5 intercontinental ballistic missile, which showcased the strength of India’s indigenous missile program. Analysts believe Pakistan’s move reflects a defensive and insecure reaction.

Central Airspace Restrictions

Pakistan has announced that airspace around Islamabad and the Line of Control (LoC) will remain closed from 00:00 am to 02:30 am (UTC) on August 22, 2025. During this window, no civilian flights will be allowed to operate in the restricted zone.

Southern Air Routes Also Affected

The restrictions are not limited to the north. Several key routes in the southern sector — including Lahore to Rahimyar Khan, Karachi, and Gwadar — will remain closed until 00:30 (UTC) on August 26, 2025. This closure will affect traffic near the India-Pakistan international border and over the Arabian Sea. Sources suggest the move could be tied to a missile test or an advanced air-defense exercise.

Pattern of Airspace Closures During Tensions

This is not the first time Pakistan has taken such a step. On April 23, 2025, amid heightened tensions after the Pahalgam terror attack, Pakistan imposed similar restrictions. Just weeks later, on May 7, India launched Operation Sindoor, destroying multiple terror camps in Pakistan and PoK.

In retaliation, Pakistan carried out strikes on India, but the confrontation lasted only four days before a ceasefire was agreed upon. However, Pakistan did not fully reopen its airspace, leading to huge financial losses. According to figures presented in Pakistan’s National Assembly, the closure cost airlines and the economy nearly 4.10 billion Pakistani rupees between April 24 and June 30, 2025.