The escalating tensions between India and Pakistan have led to significant disruptions in air travel across northern and western India. As a result, 24 airports have been temporarily closed, and airlines have issued travel advisories to ensure passenger safety and compliance with enhanced security measures.
24 Airports Closed Amid India-Pakistan Tensions: Airlines Issue Travel Advisories
In response to heightened security concerns following recent cross-border incidents, the Civil Aviation Ministry of India has announced the temporary closure of 24 airports. These closures are part of a broader security protocol to safeguard civil aviation operations in strategically significant areas.
Affected Airports
The airports impacted by the closures include key facilities in Jammu, Srinagar, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Kishangarh, and Rajkot. These locations are primarily situated near the international border or in regions deemed strategically important.
Enhanced Security Measures
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has mandated several security enhancements at all airports:
- Secondary Ladder Point Check (SLPC): All passengers will undergo additional pre-boarding inspections.
- Vehicle Checks: Thorough examination of vehicles at airport terminals.
- ID Verification: Mandatory identification checks before terminal entry.
- Luggage Screening: Random scrutiny of passenger baggage.
- Restricted Access: Visitor entry to terminal buildings is prohibited.
- Deployment of Air Marshals: Increased presence of security personnel to ensure safety.
Airline Advisories
Several airlines have issued specific guidelines for passengers:
- IndiGo: Suspended flights to and from multiple northern cities until midnight on May 10, 2025. Passengers are advised to check for updates and avail of rescheduling or cancellation options.
- Air India Express: Cancelled flights to Amritsar, Gwalior, Jammu, Srinagar, and Hindon until 05:30 hrs on May 10, 2025.
- Akasa Air: Advised passengers to arrive at least three hours prior to departure and to carry only one handbag weighing up to 7 kg.
- Air India: Encouraged passengers to allow extra time for check-in and boarding, with check-in closing 75 minutes before departure.
Passengers are urged to stay informed through official airline communication channels and to plan their journeys accordingly.
