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If you're planning a trip to North India right now, it's very important to stay updated and make safe travel decisions. As of Friday, May 9, 2025, several areas in northern and western India are facing serious disruptions due to increased tensions between India and Pakistan. After India's "Operation Sindoor" and Pakistan's response, many airports are either closed or facing strict checks and flight delays.
Here is everything you need to know before travelling:
Many Airports Closed for Civilian Flights
At least 24 to 27 airports have been closed for civilian flights in several states, including Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. This includes airports in:
Jammu and Kashmir: Srinagar, Jammu, Leh
Punjab: Amritsar, Ludhiana, Patiala, Bathinda, Halwara, Pathankot, Chandigarh (Union Territory)
Himachal Pradesh: Bhuntar (Kullu), Shimla, Kangra-Gaggal
Rajasthan: Kishangarh, Jaisalmer, Jodhpur, Bikaner
Gujarat: Mundra, Jamnagar, Hirasar, Porbandar, Keshod, Kandla, Bhuj, Rajkot
According to official notices, these airports will stay closed until Saturday morning, May 10 (around 5:30 AM IST). However, if the situation gets worse, the closures may continue for a longer time.
Airports on High Alert Across India
- Security at all airports has been increased. Some new safety rules include:
- All passengers will go through Secondary Ladder Point Checks (SLPC).
- Visitors are not allowed to enter terminal buildings.
- More Air Marshals are present at airports.
- Passengers are advised to reach the airport at least 3 hours before their flight.
- Many Flights Cancelled or Delayed
Major airlines like IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India, and Air India Express have cancelled many flights. If you are flying soon, check your airline's website or app for updates. There may be delays, reschedules, or cancellations.
International airlines are also avoiding Pakistani airspace, which may make some international flights longer.
Avoid Travel to Border Regions
If your travel is not urgent, it is strongly advised to avoid travelling to Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and border areas of Gujarat for now. There could be more closures or new restrictions, depending on how the situation develops.
If you are already in these areas or need to travel:
- Stay updated through news channels or government websites.
--Contact your airline for real-time updates.
--Be ready for delays and cancellations.
- Arrive early at the airport due to heavy security checks.
Follow travel advisories from your country. The US and UK have already warned travellers about these areas.
Understanding the Situation
Though there is no official war declaration, the region is going through a very tense time. After a terror attack in Pahalgam, India launched a strong response. These events have increased military activity near the border.
In past wars (like in 1947, 1965, 1971, and the Kargil conflict in 1999), airspace restrictions were also common. While we cannot compare every detail, the current situation is serious and must be handled with caution.
For now, travellers heading to or from airports in Jammu, Kashmir, Punjab, and Gujarat (especially near the India-Pakistan border) should postpone non-essential travel. If your trip is necessary, stay informed, plan carefully, and follow all official instructions. Safety comes first.
