Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s aircraft recently used Pakistan’s airspace while traveling from New Delhi to Paris. According to aviation sources, the aircraft, known as “India 1,” flew over multiple cities in Pakistan, including Sheikhupura, Hafizabad, Chakwal, and Kohat, spending a total of 46 minutes in Pakistani airspace.
Why Did Modi’s Plane Use Pakistan’s Airspace?
The use of Pakistani airspace was due to the closure of Afghan airspace, which left limited options for the flight route. As a result, permission was granted for the aircraft to pass through Pakistan’s territory.
Not the First Time:
This isn’t the first time an Indian prime ministerial flight has flown over Pakistan. In August last year, Modi’s aircraft also passed through Pakistani airspace while returning from Poland to Delhi. The flight entered Pakistan at around 11:00 PM and remained in its airspace for 46 minutes.
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Historical Context of Airspace Restrictions:
Pakistan had previously restricted its airspace for Indian flights due to military tensions. In March 2019, Pakistan lifted all airspace restrictions for civilian flights after nearly five months of closure. The restrictions were imposed following a security incident in India’s illegally occupied Jammu and Kashmir (IIOJK) that resulted in the deaths of 44 paramilitary personnel.
After this incident, diplomatic relations between the two countries worsened. Pakistan suspended bilateral trade and downgraded diplomatic ties after the Indian government revoked the semi-autonomous status of IIOJK in August 2019.
A Diplomatic Undertone:
Although Pakistan allowed the Indian PM’s aircraft to pass through its airspace, tensions between the two nations remain high. However, such approvals reflect the practical necessities of international aviation rather than a shift in political relations.
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