News
24 airports shut, airlines issue travel advisories amid tensions between India-Pakistan
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has advised all airlines and airports in the country to strengthen security measures
24 Airports Temporarily Closed Across India Amid Escalating Tensions With Pakistan
New Delhi, May 9 – The Civil Aviation Ministry has announced the temporary suspension of civil flight operations at 24 airports across India, citing security concerns amid heightened tensions following Pakistan’s drone and missile attacks on Indian cities in Jammu, Punjab, Gujarat, and Rajasthan.
Airports Affected and Strategic Concerns
The ministry has not disclosed the specific airports or the duration of the closures, but emphasized that the decision is part of a broader national security protocol. Many of the affected airports are located near international borders or in strategically sensitive zones.
The move is expected to disrupt air connectivity, especially in northern and western regions of the country. Travellers have been advised to check with their airlines before leaving for the airport.
Airlines Issue Travel Advisories Amid Heightened Security
In response to the Ministry’s directive, major airlines have issued travel alerts:
-
Air India: “Check-in will close 75 minutes before departure. Passengers are advised to arrive well in advance due to enhanced security measures.”
-
Akasa Air: “Arrive at least 3 hours before departure. Only one cabin bag up to 7 kg is allowed. Carry a valid photo ID.”
-
IndiGo: “Heightened security measures are being implemented nationwide. Allow extra time for check-in and boarding.”
BCAS Orders Enhanced Nationwide Security
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has mandated strict security enhancements across all civil aviation facilities. The order covers:
-
Airports, airstrips, helipads, flying schools, and aviation institutes
-
Secondary Ladder Point Checks (SLPC) at boarding gates
-
Vehicle checks, random baggage screening, and ID verification at all terminals
-
Visitor entry restrictions to terminal buildings
-
Deployment of Air Marshals as per risk assessments
“In view of the recent attack in Pahalgam and the surcharged security environment, utmost precautions are necessary to prevent any untoward incident,” BCAS stated.
National Preparedness Beyond Aviation
In parallel with aviation restrictions, several Indian states have:
-
Closed schools in sensitive border districts
-
Suspended leave for police and administrative officers
-
Imposed power blackouts in select border regions as precautionary measures
Government Stance: No Intent to Escalate
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri, during a briefing, emphasized that India’s actions were defensive and retaliatory:
“Pakistan escalated the situation; we simply responded to the terror attack in Pahalgam on April 22. The choice to escalate further lies with Pakistan.”
Meanwhile, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh, addressing an all-party meeting, confirmed that Operation Sindoor is ongoing, and the Indian Armed Forces are fully prepared to handle any further provocations.