India’s Airport Closures: What You Need to Know

Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Indian government has temporarily shut down 27 airports across northern, western, and central India until May 10, 2025. This move, prompted by security concerns has led to the cancellation of approximately 430 flights, accounting for about 3% of India's scheduled flights.

Affected Airports and Regions

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) issued Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs), leading to the suspension of operations at several key airports. Cities like Leh, Chandigarh, Amritsar, and Jodhpur are directly impacted. Additionally, airports in smaller cities across Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat have also been affected. These include:

• Punjab: Patiala, Halwara
• Himachal Pradesh: Shimla, Dharamshala
• Rajasthan: Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Kishangarh
• Gujarat: Bhuj, Jamnagar, Rajkot, Mundra, Porbandar, Kandla, and Keshod

The closures have brought routine air travel in these regions to a halt, creating a ripple effect across the country.

New Travel Guidelines for Air Passengers in India

In light of recent airport closures and heightened security, new travel guidelines have been issued for all domestic flyers. These measures aim to ensure smooth operations and enhanced safety during this sensitive period.

Key Updates:

• Early Arrival Mandatory: All passengers must arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure to allow time for additional security procedures.

• Check-In Deadlines:

• Akasa Air and Air India will close check-in counters 75 minutes before departure.

• Passengers arriving late may not be allowed to board, even if they have completed web check-in.

• Secondary Ladder Point Check (SLPC): Enhanced security screening will now take place right before boarding, just after the boarding gate. This added step may extend boarding times.

• No Visitor Entry: Entry into terminal buildings is now restricted to ticketed passengers only. Visitors or anyone accompanying travellers will not be allowed inside.

These guidelines are in effect immediately and will likely continue until May 10 or further notice. Passengers are urged to follow airline advisories and reach out to their carrier for any specific changes to their flight.

Impact on Airlines and Passengers

Major domestic airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet are cancelled. IndiGo has already cancelled flights to multiple cities and announced that these suspensions will remain in place until May 10.

International Flight Rerouting

The situation has also impacted international air routes. Airlines such as United Airlines, Korean Air, and Lufthansa are now rerouting their flights to avoid Indian airspace near conflict zones.

Final Thoughts

If you're planning to travel in or out of India soon, check your flight status frequently and stay updated on official advisories. This situation is fluid, and staying informed is the best way to minimize inconvenience.