Lagatar24 Desk
New Delhi: Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Indian government has suspended civilian flight operations at 24 airports across the country due to security concerns. The decision, implemented under Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), follows heightened defence protocols in sensitive areas.
Strategic locations impacted
According to a list released by the Press Information Bureau (PIB), the suspended airports include those in Chandigarh, Srinagar, Amritsar, Ludhiana, Bhuntar, Kishangarh, Patiala, Shimla, Bathinda, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Halwara, Panchkula, Jammu, Leh, Mundra (Adani), Jamnagar, Hirasar (Rajkot), Porbandar, Keshod, Kandla, and Bhuj.
Many of these airports are located near international borders or sensitive military zones, making their closure a critical element of India’s national security readiness.
Advisories from airlines
Major airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, and Akasa Air have issued travel advisories urging passengers to plan their journeys accordingly.
Key travel instructions for passengers:
Arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure Carry a valid government-issued photo ID Cooperate with enhanced security screening Only one hand baggage up to 7 kg is permitted per passenger All travellers must undergo mandatory security checks before boarding
Airlines tighten check-in windows
Air India stated that check-in will close 75 minutes prior to departure, and travellers must allocate extra time for security checks, following instructions from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS).
Akasa Air also issued a public advisory via X (formerly Twitter), encouraging passengers to arrive early to avoid delays.
IndiGo emphasized increased airport vigilance, urging passengers to allow sufficient time for formalities and thanking them for their cooperation during these extraordinary circumstances.