A major aviation incident has sparked concern after Pakistan reportedly denied airspace access to an IndiGo Airlines flight carrying 227 passengers, even as the aircraft encountered severe turbulence mid-air.
The flight, operating on Wednesday, was en route from India when it encountered atmospheric instability. As per official sources, in a bid to stabilize the aircraft and ensure passenger safety, the pilots attempted to re-route through Pakistan’s airspace—a standard aviation practice under such circumstances. However, Pakistani air traffic control denied the request, forcing the aircraft to navigate alternative routes under challenging conditions.
Aviation experts and Indian authorities have criticized the decision, calling it a "shameful act" that risked the lives of everyone on board. The denial of airspace during an emergency situation goes against established international aviation norms, which prioritize human life over geopolitical tensions.
“This is a clear violation of ICAO protocols that emphasize cooperation between countries during emergencies,” said a senior Indian civil aviation official.
IndiGo has not yet released a detailed statement but confirmed that all passengers landed safely, and no injuries were reported. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is expected to raise the issue through diplomatic channels.
The incident has reignited discussions on the use of airspace between neighboring countries, especially in the context of strained India-Pakistan relations. Experts suggest that international aviation bodies may need to intervene to prevent the recurrence of such events that put innocent lives at risk.
