32 Airports Shut Amid India–Pakistan Tensions; NOTAMs Issued Over Key Air Routes
In light of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Airports Authority of India (AAI), along with other aviation regulators, has issued Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) announcing a temporary suspension of civilian operations at 32 airports across northern and western India. The Ministry of Civil Aviation confirmed that the suspension—citing “operational reasons”—will remain in effect from 9 May until 5:29 am on 15 May. Affected airports span multiple states including Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, Gujarat, and Uttar Pradesh, with facilities like Srinagar, Amritsar, Jaipur, Rajkot, and Hindon among those closed.
The NOTAMs also include temporary restrictions across 25 segments of Air Traffic Service (ATS) routes in the Delhi and Mumbai Flight Information Regions, from ground level to unlimited altitude. Airlines and operators have been advised to reroute flights accordingly. The Ministry stated the closures are being managed in coordination with Air Traffic Control units to ensure safety and minimize disruptions during the period of heightened operational security.
The developments come as India faces alleged drone and strike threats from Pakistan, following cross-border hostilities on 8 and 9 May. In response, Indian authorities have implemented civilian safety measures, including school closures, blackouts in vulnerable regions, and suspension of leave for law enforcement and administrative personnel. Several states remain on high alert, and India’s air defence systems have reportedly intercepted multiple aerial threats, underscoring the volatile regional climate.
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