India’s aviation regulator has granted Air India temporary permission to extend both duty hours and rest periods for pilots operating long-haul flights, an internal memo shows. This short-term exemption, which began on April 30 and lasts around two weeks, applies to Airbus and Boeing aircraft flying primarily to U.S. destinations.

The adjustment comes as Air India works to navigate the challenges posed by Pakistan’s recent airspace closure, a situation that has disrupted flight paths and increased operational burdens. A source familiar with the matter told Reuters that the temporary measures are in place while a longer-term solution is explored.

According to the memo, the maximum flight duty period — the total time from reporting for duty to the completion of post-flight tasks — has been extended. Pilots can now work up to 16 hours on flights under 12 hours (up from 14), and up to 24 hours on flights exceeding 14 hours (previously capped at 22). Additional rest has also been arranged, with four extra hours during layovers and 12 extra hours at home base.

Neither Air India nor the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), part of India’s civil aviation ministry, was immediately available for comment.

The change comes as Indian airlines brace for higher fuel expenses and longer routes following Pakistan’s decision to close its airspace amid heightened tensions after a recent attack in Kashmir. Reuters reported that Air India could face up to $600 million in extra costs if the airspace restrictions persist for a year and has requested compensation from the government.

The Economic Times first reported on the memo, which has sparked unease among pilots. One Air India pilot told Reuters the measures felt “extreme,” reflecting rising concerns over crew workloads as India’s aviation market surges.