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Pakistan reopens its airspace after 6 months
Why is it in news?
- In a massive relief for air travellers as well as the airline sector, Pakistan reopened its airspace for all flights after a gap of six months since the IAF’s strikes on Balakot.
More in news
- Longer route: The curb meant airlines had to take a longer route to reach their destinations and burn more fuel, stop midway for refuelling as well as roster more pilots and cabin crew, as their duty hours are regulated.
- Increase in operational costs: An increase in fuel expenses, which constitutes 40% of an airline’s operational costs, resulted in an increase in fares and in some cases cancellation of flights, leaving passengers with fewer options to choose from.
- Benefits:(1) The move will benefit Indian carriers as well as those airlines that enter or exit Pakistan from its eastern border with India, such as South East Asian airlines, as Pakistan had lifted its curbs for most other airlines.(2) Until now, only two of the 11 routes between the two countries had been opened by Pakistan.(3) With the reopening of Pakistan’s airspace, aircraft utilisation will go up and crew requirement will come down by 25%.(4) Operational costs for the U.S.-bound flight may come down by Rs. 20 lakh one way, and for the Europe-bound flights by Rs 5 lakh.
Source
The Hindu