Thirty-two airports that were shut down amid heightened tensions between India and Pakistan will reopen. On May 9, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) had announced the suspension of civil flight operations at several airports in northern and western India, citing “operational reasons.” The suspension was set to last until 5:29 am on May 15, 2025.
"Temporary closure of 32 Airports for civil Aircraft operations till 05:29 hrs of 15 May 2025 has been lifted. These Airports are now available for civil Aircraft operations with immediate effect. Travellers are advised to check flight status directly with the Airlines and monitor Airline’s websites for regular updates," Ministry of Civil Aviation said on Monday.
The affected airports are primarily located near the India-Pakistan border, including cities such as Amritsar, Chandigarh, Jaisalmer, Leh, Pathankot, Porbandar, Srinagar, and Shimla.
A fresh Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) has been issued shortly, replacing the current one that had temporarily suspended operations.
While the airports will be allowed to operate, airlines may take some time to resume services as they will need to inform passengers and adjust schedules, it noted.
"Chandigarh Airport is now open for normal civil flight operations with immediate effect as per information conveyed by CEO, Chandigarh International Airport Limited (CHIAL)," said Deputy Commissioner, Mohali
Meanwhile, IndiGo in a travel advisory on May 12 said, "In line with the latest government directives, the airports are open for operations. We will progressively commence operations on the previously closed routes."
The airline added that even as services gradually return to normal, there may still be a few delays and last-minute adjustments.
"If you are still reconsidering your travel plans, change and cancellation fee waivers remain available until 22nd May 2025 for travel to and from the affected airports," IndiGo added.
Delhi Airport Operational
New Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport resumed services on May 11, although some delays and cancellations were reported.
"Delhi Airport operations are currently smooth," said Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) in a post on X (formerly Twitter). "However, due to changing airspace conditions and increased security measures, some flight schedules and processing times at security checkpoints may be affected."
As of 4:30 pm on May 11, 97 flights had been cancelled—one international departure, 44 domestic arrivals, and 52 domestic departures, CNBC-TV18 reported.
The airport closures followed rising tensions between India and Pakistan, prompting authorities to halt operations for safety reasons.
A day later, on May 10, both nations agreed to cease all cross-border firing. However, later reports from the armed forces indicated that Pakistan had resumed shelling along the Line of Control and had deployed drones in border areas.
According to recent updates, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has instructed all civil airports to remain on high alert, particularly in baggage handling and cargo zones. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) will continue to oversee hold baggage and cargo screening operations until May 18, the broadcaster said.
