Operations resume at 32 airports in India previously closed due to conflict with Pakistan

In a significant development, civil aviation authorities on Monday announced the reopening of 32 airports that were previously closed in the aftermath of the conflict between India and Pakistan.

The decision to resume operations comes after a comprehensive security assessment and in coordination with defence and aviation stakeholders. Authorities have confirmed that conditions are now deemed stable enough to allow the safe movement of civil aircraft at these locations.

In a tweet, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) informed that in response to dynamic developments in airspace conditions and in line with prevailing security protocols, commercial flight operations across 32 airports were temporarily suspended as a precautionary measure. 

The suspension, which remained in effect until 05:29 hours on May 15, 2025, was implemented to ensure the safety of passengers, crew members, and aviation infrastructure amid changing operational scenarios.

The AAI also advised travellers to check flight status directly with the airlines and monitor their websites for regular updates.

The list of 32 airports also include Jaisalmer, Jamnagar, Jodhpur, Adhampur, Ambala, Awantipur, Bathinda, Bhuj, Bikaner, Halwara, Hindon, Jammu, Kandla, Kangra (Gaggal), Keshod, Kishangarh, Kullu Manali (Bhuntar), Leh, Ludhiana, Mundra, Naliya, Pathankot, Patiala, Porbandar, Rajkot (Hirasar), Sarsawa, Shimla, Thoise and Uttarlai.

The initial closure covering 24 airports was announced on Friday and it was extended to 32 airports a day later. A series of Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) were issued Saturday, announcing the temporary closure of the 32 airports.

Authorities closely monitored the situation throughout the duration of the suspension, working in coordination with civil aviation agencies, airport operators, and air traffic control units. With conditions having normalized, it is a matter of reassurance that full commercial operations have now resumed at all affected airports, and they are once again open for civil aircraft movements with immediate effect.

Passengers who had bookings during the affected period or are scheduled to travel soon have been strongly advised to remain in close contact with their respective airlines. 

It has been recommended that travelers regularly check their flight status, either through the airlines’ official websites or mobile applications, as schedules may have undergone adjustments due to the temporary disruption.

Airline and airport authorities are working diligently to ensure a smooth transition back to normal operations, including reallocation of slots, staff deployment, and crowd management. The Ministry of Civil Aviation and relevant stakeholders appreciate the public’s patience and cooperation during this period and reaffirm their commitment to prioritizing passenger safety and seamless air connectivity across the country.

For the latest updates, passengers should continue to refer only to official airline channels and verified announcements to avoid misinformation.

“In light of evolving circumstances and dynamic airspace conditions, commercial flight operations were temporarily suspended at 32 Airports until 05:29 hrs of May, 15th 2025. It is pleased to inform that these Airports are now fully operational for Civil Aircraft movements with immediate effect,” tweeted AAI.

AAI further wrote, the passengers scheduled to travel via these airports are advised to stay updated by checking flight status directly with their respective airlines and monitor official airline websites for the latest information.