The Indian government has decided to keep 24 airports closed until May 14, 2025. This important step has been taken because of the increasing tension between India and Pakistan. The situation became more serious after a major drone attack took place on the night between May 7 and May 8.
According to reports, Pakistan launched around 300 to 400 drones made in Turkey towards Indian areas. This sudden and large-scale drone attack has raised major security concerns. In response, the Indian government is taking strict safety measures to protect the country, including the temporary closure of several airports.
These airports are located in regions that could be at risk in case of further conflict or attacks. By shutting down these airports, the government aims to ensure public safety and give the military and security agencies more control over sensitive areas during this tense period.
The government is closely watching the situation and will decide on the next steps based on how things develop between the two countries. For now, the focus is on protecting citizens and national infrastructure from any possible threat.
India Extends Airport Shutdown Until May 15
Due to rising tensions with Pakistan, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has extended the closure of 24 airports near India’s western border until 5:29 AM on May 15. This decision follows a recent terror attack in Pahalgam and drone and missile strikes from Pakistan targeting regions in Jammu, Punjab, and Rajasthan. Indian defense forces successfully intercepted the threats, but nationwide aviation security has been tightened.
Air India has cancelled flights to and from cities like Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Bhuj, Jamnagar, and Rajkot. Affected travelers can either reschedule once without charges or request a full refund. IndiGo also suspended operations to several cities and shared online tools for checking flight status, rebooking, or claiming refunds.
Passengers are advised to arrive at airports at least three hours before departure. In addition, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security has enforced stricter safety measures, including full Secondary Ladder Point Checks (SLPC) for all flyers. Entry for visitors at terminals is now restricted, and Air Marshals will be deployed when necessary.
Also Read: Mock Drill: Which Districts Are Involved in the Nationwide Exercise?
List of 24 Airports Closed Until May 14
The Ministry of Civil Aviation has temporarily suspended operations at the following 24 airports near India’s western borders due to heightened security concerns:
- Chandigarh
- Srinagar
- Amritsar
- Ludhiana
- Bhuntar
- Kishengarh
- Patiala
- Shimla
- Kangra-Gaggal
- Bathinda
- Jaisalmer
- Jodhpur
- Bikaner
- Halwara
- Pathankot
- Jammu
- Leh
- Mundra
- Jamnagar
- Hirasar
- Porbandar
- Keshod
- Kandla
- Bhuj
Flights to and from these locations will remain suspended until 5:29 AM on May 15, 2025. Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest updates, refund policies, and rebooking options.
India-Pakistan Tensions Escalate
Tensions between India and Pakistan intensified on Thursday evening after Pakistan launched a missile and drone attack targeting several regions across Jammu, Punjab, and Rajasthan. The Indian Ministry of Defence confirmed the strikes originated from Pakistan, triggering air raid sirens, emergency blackouts, and the suspension of the IPL match in Dharamshala, Himachal Pradesh.
Indian air defense systems quickly intercepted the threats, preventing wider damage. However, several areas suffered impact. In Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, visuals emerged showing a temple, a gurudwara, and a mosque damaged in the attacks. One house was completely destroyed, while another severely damaged building was demolished by local authorities as a precaution, according to ANI footage.
In response to the escalating situation, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has directed all Indian airports and airlines to tighten safety protocols. Enhanced security checks, including mandatory Secondary Ladder Point Checks (SLPC) for all flyers, have been implemented. Visitor access to airport terminals has also been temporarily suspended.
Flight Disruptions and Travel Advisory
Major airlines, including Air India and IndiGo, have issued fresh travel advisories. IndiGo announced that passengers who booked flights on or before 8 May 2025 for travel until 22 May 2025 to or from high-risk cities such as Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Kishangarh, and Rajkot are eligible for free rescheduling or cancellation.
Air India has similarly advised travelers to reach the airport at least three hours before departure due to heightened security screenings and potential delays.
These developments come alongside the closure of 24 airports near India’s western borders until 5:29 AM on May 15, as a safety measure amid the ongoing cross-border tensions.
Also Read: Tourists Flock Back to Pahalgam Days After Terror Attack
FAQs
Q.1. Why are 24 Indian airports closed until May 15, 2025?
Ans. The airports have been shut due to escalating tensions and security threats following missile and drone attacks launched from Pakistan.
Q.2. Which airports are affected by the closure?
Ans. Airports in cities like Srinagar, Chandigarh, Amritsar, Jodhpur, Leh, and others near India’s western border are temporarily closed until May 15, 2025.
Q.3. What are the airline policies for cancelled flights?
Ans. Airlines like Air India and IndiGo are offering free rescheduling or full refunds for affected passengers traveling to or from impacted cities.
Q.4. What security measures are in place at airports now?
Ans. All passengers must undergo Secondary Ladder Point Checks (SLPC), and terminal visitor entry has been suspended to enhance airport security nationwide.
Q.5. How long will the airport closures last?
Ans. The closures are currently in effect until 5:29 AM on May 15, 2025, and may be extended depending on the security situation.
