Srinagar-Sharjah flight rerouted as Pakistan denies use of its air space

Pakistani Authorities Tuesday did not allow Go First’s new Srinagar-Sharjah flight to use their country’s airspace, forcing the budget airline to reroute the service and add 40 minutes to its flying time, Government officials said.

Pakistan’s move, which comes 10 days after the flight was inaugurated by Union Home Minister Amit Shah, was described as “very unfortunate” by National Conference leader Omar Abdullah while PDP’s Mehbooba Mufti blamed the Centre for not doing “any groundwork” before launching the service.

The Centre is yet to respond to Pakistan’s decision. Go Air did not respond to requests for comment on the development and its impact on the service.