In a significant move to address travel disruptions caused by recent tensions between India and Pakistan, low-cost airline IndiGo announced on Saturday that customers affected by the closure of 32 airports can now opt to travel from or to nearby airports without incurring additional charges. This decision comes as part of the airline's commitment to support its passengers during this period of uncertainty.
IndiGo's announcement follows a series of Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) issued by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), which confirmed the temporary closure of the affected airports due to operational reasons. The closures, which began on May 9, will remain in effect until 05:29 IST on May 15, 2025, impacting key airports in northern and western India, including Amritsar, Chandigarh, Jammu, and Srinagar.
“We understand the uncertainty this situation may have caused and want to assure you that our team is here to help. Change and cancellation fees are being waived for bookings made during this period,” IndiGo stated. The airline has also indicated plans to operate relief flights to assist stranded passengers, further emphasizing its dedication to customer service in challenging times.
As the situation unfolds, the Ministry of Civil Aviation is actively reviewing the airspace status. A decision regarding the reopening of the affected airports is expected soon, with the ministry coordinating closely with defense and security agencies. The current airspace restrictions are a result of heightened tensions and the need for safety and route management in light of recent military activities.
The ceasefire agreement between India and Pakistan, brokered by the United States, has been in effect since May 10. However, the impact of this agreement on civil aviation operations remains to be seen. The ceasefire was reached after intense communications, including a hotline conversation between the Directors General of Military Operations (DGMO) of both countries.
In the meantime, passengers are advised to stay informed and vigilant. The Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has confirmed that operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport are continuing smoothly, albeit with some adjustments to flight schedules and potential delays at security checkpoints due to heightened security protocols. “We strongly advise all passengers to depend exclusively on official updates for accurate information and to refrain from circulating unverified content,” the advisory stated.
As travelers express concerns about their travel plans, airport helplines have reported a surge in inquiries. An airport official in Chandigarh noted, “People who had booked travel for this week have already started calling the airport control offices and airline counters since early this morning.”
The AAI has also temporarily closed 25 segments of Air Traffic Service (ATS) routes within the Delhi and Mumbai Flight Information Regions (FIRs), further complicating the air travel landscape. These segments will remain unavailable until 05:29 IST on May 15, 2025, requiring airlines to adjust their operations accordingly.
In light of the ongoing security concerns, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has expanded the mandate of the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) to include direct oversight of cargo operations and the In-line Hold Baggage Screening System (ILHBSS) across civil airports in India. This decision follows a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam, which has heightened security measures across the nation.
As the aviation industry navigates these turbulent waters, airlines like Air India and IndiGo are urging passengers to stay updated through official channels. “We are monitoring the situation closely and will resume services as soon as regulatory approval is granted,” an Air India spokesperson said.
In addition to the operational challenges, a scheduled emergency blackout drill was conducted at Pune Airport on May 10, aimed at testing the airport's preparedness for potential emergencies. Airport staff and emergency responders executed procedures during the drill, which involved shutting off all lights and power systems.
With the current suspension of civil flight operations at 32 airports, travelers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates on flight statuses and rescheduling options. The affected airports include Adhampur, Ambala, Amritsar, Awantipur, Bathinda, Bhuj, Bikaner, Chandigarh, Halwara, Hindon, Jaisalmer, Jammu, Jamnagar, Jodhpur, Kandla, Kangra (Gaggal), Keshod, Kishangarh, Kullu Manali (Bhuntar), Leh, Ludhiana, Mundra, Naliya, Pathankot, Patiala, Porbandar, Rajkot (Hirasar), Sarsawa, Shimla, Srinagar, Thoise, and Uttarlai.
As the situation continues to evolve, the Ministry of Civil Aviation is expected to make announcements regarding the reopening of airspace and the resumption of flights. Passengers are encouraged to remain patient and vigilant as they await further updates.
