In view of rising tensions between India and Pakistan, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has announced the temporary suspension of all civil flights at 32 airports in North and West India from May 9 to May 14, 2025. This decision has been taken through Air Traffic Alert (NOTAM). Airlines have been asked to avoid some existing flight routes between Delhi-Mumbai and reroute flights by May 14. Delhi-Mumbai is the primary trunk route for domestic air travel in India.
List of closed airports:
- Amritsar, Srinagar, Jammu, Leh, Chandigarh, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Bhuj, Bikaner, Bathinda, Porbandar, Bhuntar (Kullu-Manali), Kangra (Gagal), Pathankot, Uttarlai, Hindan, Ambala, Adampur, Awantipur, Halwara, Sarsawa, Thois, Ludhiana, Patiala, Nalia, Mandara, Rajkot (Hirasar), Kandla, Jamnagar, Kishangarh, Keshod
Why was this decision taken?
- After a precision air strike by India on 7 May against terror camps in Pakistan and POK, Pakistan retaliated with drone and missile strikes.
- The Indian air defense system successfully thwarted these attacks, but despite this, security agencies have increased vigilance regarding air traffic.
Status of affected flights and airlines:
- Air India has canceled flights to Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Bhuj, Jamnagar and Rajkot. Passengers are given the facility of full refund or one-time free re-scheduling.
- IndiGo has also canceled many flights and has provided the facility of flight status check, rebook or refund from the online portal of the passengers.
Special Security Arrangements:
- Security has been tightened at all affected airports.
- The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has:
- Visitor entry is restricted in the terminal
- Secondary Ladder Point Checks (SLPC) have been made mandatory
- Instructions have been given for the deployment of Air Marshals if necessary
- Passengers are requested to reach the airport at least 3 hours in advance.
Advice for travellers:
- Visit the website of the airline to know the flight status.
- Avoid unnecessary travel and take advantage of ticket cancellation/rebooking options.
The Indian government and airlines are monitoring the situation and flights will resume as soon as the security situation improves.