In a significant security-driven move, the Indian government has ordered the closure of 27 airports across northern, western, and central India until 5:29 am IST on May 10, 2025. This decision follows Indian armed forces’ precision strikes on terror camps located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as part of Operation Sindoor, launched in response to the deadly terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22.
The airport shutdown has led to the cancellation of over 400 flights today, affecting thousands of passengers and disrupting both domestic and international air travel. Major airlines such as IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet have announced waivers on rescheduling fees and full refunds for affected travellers. Airport authorities and airlines continue to monitor the situation closely, urging passengers to stay updated on flight statuses amid ongoing airspace restrictions.
Airspace Restrictions Cause Widespread Travel Chaos
The closure of 27 airports, including key hubs such as Srinagar, Jammu, Leh, Chandigarh, Amritsar, and Jodhpur, has brought air travel in large parts of the country to a near halt. IndiGo alone has cancelled more than 165 flights, while Air India and SpiceJet have also suspended operations from the affected airports until May 10.
A spokesperson from IndiGo said, “Due to government notification on airspace restrictions, over 165 IndiGo flights from multiple airports are cancelled until 0529 hrs IST of 10 May. We are committed to assisting passengers with rescheduling or full refunds.”
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, India’s busiest, recorded around 140 cancellations today, with airport officials working round the clock alongside Air Traffic Control to manage the situation and minimise further disruption.
International airlines have rerouted flights to avoid the restricted airspace over northern and western India. Meanwhile, Pakistan’s civil aviation authorities have also cancelled 147 flights, amounting to nearly 17% of their scheduled services, reflecting the cross-border impact of the escalating tensions.
Operation Sindoor and the Security Context
The airport closures and flight cancellations are direct consequences of Operation Sindoor, a military response launched by India after the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam that claimed 26 lives. Indian forces targeted nine terror camps across Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, aiming to dismantle terror infrastructure.
Following these strikes, the Indian government imposed strict airspace restrictions to ensure national security and prevent any aerial threats. Flight tracking data from platforms like Flightradar24 showed a significant reduction in civilian flights over the affected regions, with many flights diverted or grounded.
Airlines have urged passengers to verify flight statuses before travelling and have pledged to keep the public informed as the security situation evolves. Authorities remain vigilant, with the possibility of extending restrictions depending on developments along the border.
The Logical Indian’s Perspective
The temporary shutdown of airports and the cancellation of hundreds of flights have undoubtedly caused distress and inconvenience to thousands of travellers, many of whom face uncertainty and disruption to their plans.
However, The Logical Indian recognises that the safety and security of citizens must take precedence in times of heightened national tension. We advocate for a balanced approach that emphasises peace, dialogue, and empathy, even amid necessary security measures. It is crucial for all stakeholders-government, airlines, and the public-to collaborate in mitigating the impact on civilians while fostering mutual understanding and resilience.
As we reflect on these developments, we invite our readers to share their thoughts: How can communities and authorities work together to support those affected by such disruptions, and what steps can be taken to promote peace and coexistence even in challenging times?
