The Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has lost Rs. 4.1 billion over the closure of Pakistani airspace to Indian-registered aircraft, the Ministry of Defense informed the National Assembly on Friday.
The losses, incurred from April 24 to June 30, resulted from the reduction in overflying revenue, it said, adding the closure was a tit-for-tat response to India’s unilateral suspension of the Indus Waters Treaty and closure of its airspace to Pakistani aircraft.
Pakistan’s decision, says the ministry, affects 100-150 Indian aircraft daily. Transit traffic has also been slashed by almost 20%. A similar closure in 2019 cost an estimated Rs. 7.6 billion in losses.
Defending the decision, the ministry said it strategic and diplomatic weight to safeguard civilians, protect infrastructure, and allow military planning. “While financial losses occur, sovereignty and national defense take precedence over economic considerations,” it added.
The ministry stressed that the losses were a result of “revenue shortfalls, not overall financial losses.” It said overflight and aeronautical charges remained unchanged, demonstrating resilience and avoiding tariff hikes or government bailouts. “When it comes to safeguarding our sovereignty and national security, no price is too high,” reiterated the ministry. “The defense of our homeland will always remain paramount.”