Bangladesh has closed its airspace to Indian airline SpiceJet over unpaid fees, forcing the affected flights to take alternative routes, sources said on Saturday.

According to Bangladeshi media, the decision was taken after the airline failed to settle its dues, disrupting air connectivity between the two countries.

Reports indicate that the airspace closure has increased flight duration, while fuel consumption has also risen.

Experts say that alternate routes lead to higher operational costs, which could have a direct bearing on airline’s already already strained finances.

Indian media have reported that SpiceJet has been facing financial difficulties in recent months.

The company recently acknowledged a loss of Rs269.27 crores in its latest financial results, while its share prices saw a slight dip.

Aviation experts warn that the airspace restrictions pose another challenge for the struggling airline.

Neither SpiceJet nor Indian authorities have issued an official statement on the matter.