In a key sign of de-escalation between India and Pakistan, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has reopened 32 airports across northern and western India for civilian operations, following a temporary shutdown due to security concerns during the recent military standoff.
Also Read: 32 Airports Shut Until May 15
The airports, which include major hubs such as Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, and Jodhpur, had been closed since May 8, 2025, after India launched Operation Sindoor—a targeted military operation against terror infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
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The closures were triggered after a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 26, which claimed the lives of 26 civilians, primarily tourists. In response, India conducted a series of air and missile strikes, including a direct hit on Pakistan’s Nur Khan Air Base near Islamabad—an installation critical to Pakistan’s military and nuclear command structure. The strike drew global attention, particularly after NASA’s FIRMS satellite reportedly detected significant thermal anomalies at the site.
Over 430 domestic and international flights were canceled or diverted during the airspace restrictions, with civilian air travel heavily disrupted. The AAI had earlier extended the airspace lockdown until May 15, citing continuing military risk, before reversing the decision today in light of improved conditions.
The shift follows a ceasefire agreement reached on May 1, 2025, reportedly brokered with diplomatic involvement from the United States and other international actors. AAI’s press release, issued at 12:13 PM IST, advises passengers to check directly with airlines for the latest flight updates and monitor the AAI website for regular information.
Despite the resumption of civil aviation, tensions remain. Unverified reports have emerged alleging radiation concerns at the heavily damaged Nur Khan Air Base, though no official confirmation has been made. Meanwhile, the unresolved status of Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and the broader Kashmir dispute continues to pose strategic challenges for both nations and the international community.
The reopening of the airspace is being cautiously welcomed as a step toward normalization, though security analysts warn that the fragile ceasefire could easily unravel without meaningful diplomatic progress.
For further information, AAI has directed inquiries to its Corporate Communication Department at 011-20818228, referencing Press Release No. 3/2025-26.
