In response to the escalating regional security situation, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has issued Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) announcing the temporary suspension of all civil flight operations at 32 airports across northern and western India. The closure, which took effect early Saturday morning, will remain in place until 5:29 AM on May 15, according to a government release.
The suspended 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. Many of these locations are either dual-use facilities or lie in proximity to sensitive military zones and international borders.
The suspension comes amid heightened military readiness linked to Operation Sindoor, India’s ongoing response to recent terrorist attacks, and follows increased aerial surveillance and defense deployments across the region. The government has advised airlines and operators to plan alternate routings and adhere to the latest air traffic directives to ensure minimal disruption to passengers.
Delhi Airport, while not affected by the closure, issued a separate advisory at 6:00 AM, stating that operations remain normal but may experience disruptions due to enhanced security protocols and changing airspace dynamics. Passengers were advised to arrive early, travel with limited baggage, and be prepared for longer security clearance times.
Travelers have also been urged to check flight schedules directly with their airlines or through the official Delhi Airport website. Authorities emphasized the importance of relying solely on verified information and cautioned against sharing or acting upon unconfirmed reports circulating on social media.
As India’s aviation and defense sectors coordinate closely to manage the evolving situation, the priority remains ensuring safety while maintaining essential connectivity through alternate means where possible.
