Operation Sindoor: A Significant Move by India

In a bold response to recent tensions, India has announced the temporary closure of 20 airports in the northern and western regions until 5:29 am on Saturday, May 10, 2025. This decision follows India's military actions against terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) early Wednesday morning.

List of Affected Airports

The airports affected by this closure include Leh, Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Pathankot, Chandigarh, Jodhpur, Jaisalmer, Jamnagar, Bhatinda, Bhuj, Dharamshala, Shimla, Rajkot, Porbandar, Bikaner, Hindon, Kishangarh, Kandla, and Gwalior. Airlines have suspended flights to and from these locations until further notice.

International Airlines Adjust Routes

Following the escalation, nearly all international airlines have ceased overflying Pakistani airspace, leading to longer flight times for routes between the west and north India, including Mumbai. Air India reported diverting two international flights bound for Amritsar to Delhi. KLM mentioned increased flight durations for its Amsterdam-Delhi and Amsterdam-Mumbai routes, though both will remain nonstop.

Airline Statements and Passenger Guidance

IndiGo and Air India have issued statements regarding flight cancellations and options for affected passengers, including rescheduling or refunds. SpiceJet also noted impacts on departures and arrivals due to the closures.

Global Airspace Restrictions

Pakistan had previously closed its airspace to Indian carriers on April 24. The recent developments have further restricted airspace usage, with airlines like Singapore Airlines and Scoot rerouting flights to avoid Pakistani airspace, potentially increasing travel times.

United Airlines canceled its New York-Delhi flight, citing the evolving situation in South Asia and airspace limitations, with further decisions pending based on developments.