MEA rejects Pakistan overflight denial; Sri Lanka aid flight cleared
MEA rejects Pakistan overflight denial; Sri Lanka aid flight cleared
India's MEA dismissed Pakistan's denial claims and confirmed overflight clearance was granted for a humanitarian flight aiding flood-hit Sri Lanka.
The Ministry of External Affairs (MEA) on Tuesday dismissed Pakistan’s claim that its airspace was denied for a humanitarian flight to Sri Lanka, calling the statement ridiculous and an attempt at spreading anti-India misinformation. The MEA stressed that the request for overflight clearance was received by the Indian High Commission in Islamabad at 1 pm on Monday and was processed expeditiously the same day, with permission granted for the proposed itinerary at 1730 hours on December 1, 2025.
Officials noted that the gesture was strictly humanitarian, taken despite Pakistan’s ban on Indian airlines using its airspace. The embassy in Islamabad conveyed the overflight approval through official channels, highlighting India’s readiness to assist Sri Lanka during its crisis. The MEA reiterated the government’s commitment to helping the people of Sri Lanka in these challenging times through all available means.
The exchange comes amid broader coverage of Sri Lanka’s flood crisis following Cyclone Ditwah, underscoring a moment of diplomatic messaging around humanitarian relief. Pakistan’s claim of denial and India’s swift clearance have sparked discussions about regional cooperation and the use of airspace in emergency aid operations.
Cover image source: India dismisses reports about denial of overflight to Pakistani aid flights 🔗
