Operation Sindoor: 32 airports closed until 15 May as airlines cancel flights amid heightened tensions

In the wake of rising tensions between India and Pakistan, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has temporarily closed 32 airports across northern and western India to civil flight operations as part of Operation Sindoor. The closure, which began on 9 May, will continue until 05:29 hours IST on 15 May 2025, as per the latest Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) issued by the Airports Authority of India.

Which airports are closed?

The impacted airports include major hubs such as Chandigarh, Srinagar, Amritsar, Jammu, Leh, and Jodhpur, as well as several smaller but strategically significant locations like Pathankot, Bhuj, and Bikaner. This large-scale closure is aimed at ensuring operational readiness and safety amidst ongoing national security concerns.

Airlines respond to extensive flight cancellations

Airlines have responded with extensive flight cancellations. Air India announced that its flights to and from affected cities including Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Amritsar, and Bhuj would remain suspended through the morning of 15 May. A spokesperson confirmed that passengers holding valid bookings during this period would be eligible for a full refund or a one-time waiver on rescheduling.

IndiGo

Similarly, IndiGo shared a list of suspended services covering Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, and more, while SpiceJet has halted flights to Leh, Dharamshala, and other destinations. Passengers have been advised to check flight status prior to travelling and contact airline helplines for rebooking or refund options.

Air India Express

Air India Express, although operating a limited set of routes, has also suspended operations to airports like Amritsar and Jammu until 10 May, with full refunds available and special waivers in place for defence personnel.

Tight security checks

In addition to flight disruptions, passengers across all Indian airports are facing tighter security checks. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has implemented new measures, including mandatory Secondary Ladder Point Checks (SLPC) and a temporary ban on visitor access to terminal buildings. Airlines such as Akasa Air, Air India, and SpiceJet have issued advisories requesting travellers to arrive at least three hours before their scheduled departures.

Delhi and Mumbai airports continue to operate

Despite the closures, airports such as Delhi and Mumbai continue to operate, although delays and cancellations are occurring due to enhanced protocols. Delhi alone reported over 130 flight cancellations on Friday.?Travellers are encouraged to stay updated through airline websites and helplines as the situation develops.

List of the following airports that are shut because of the India Vs Pakistan war tension:

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

Uttarlai