The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) on Saturday issued an advisory to airlines, directing them to ensure appropriate communication and in-flight catering for passengers as international flight times have increased following the closure of Pakistan&rsquo;s airspace.
With Pakistan having shut its airspace to Indian carriers, international flights, especially those departing from northern cities such as Delhi, are facing extended durations.&nbsp;
In view of these developments, the DGCA issued guidelines to improve passenger handling as airspace restrictions have led to longer flying hours and technical stopovers.
The advisory highlights five principal areas for action: pre-flight communication with passengers, in-flight catering and passenger comfort, medical preparedness and readiness of alternate aerodromes, customer service and support systems, and enhanced intra-departmental coordination.&nbsp;
The DGCA said, "Due to recent developments involving international airspace closures and overflight restrictions, airline operations have been impacted."&nbsp;
It further noted that there has been significant rerouting of both international and regional flights, a rise in block times compared to scheduled durations, and the potential need for technical halts en route for operational or refuelling purposes.
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DGCA advises airlines on passenger services as Pakistan airspace closure extends international flight times

DGCA Issues Advisory Amid Pakistan Airspace Closure

DGCA advises airlines on passenger services as Pakistan airspace closure extends international flight times

April 26, 2025 | 19:44 IST