Due to military tensions near the India–Pakistan border, 21 airports across northern and northwestern India are closed to passenger flights until May 10, 2025, affecting major airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet.

Airports Shut Following Military Escalation

A recent Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Airports Authority of India has led to the temporary closure of 21 airports in northern India. The closure, effective until 5:29 a.m. on May 10, 2025, follows reported Indian military operations near the Pakistan border.

This government-mandated shutdown affects airports across the states of Punjab, Himachal Pradesh, Rajasthan, and Gujarat, as well as the Union Territories of Jammu and Kashmir and Ladakh.

Domestic and International Flights Disrupted

The suspension of passenger flights has forced domestic airlines to cancel hundreds of scheduled services. International carriers, particularly from the United States, also faced disruptions due to restricted access through Pakistani airspace.

Affected airports include:

• Himachal Pradesh: Shimla, Dharamshala

• Rajasthan: Jodhpur, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Kishangarh

• Punjab: Amritsar, Chandigarh, Patiala, Halwara

• Gujarat: Bhuj, Jamnagar, Rajkot, Mundra, Porbandar, Kandla, Keshod

Also impacted are Gwalior and Hindon, which are jointly operated by the Indian Air Force and civilian airlines.

Airlines Cancel Hundreds of Flights

Airlines have announced significant cancellations:

• IndiGo has canceled over 165 flights from 11 airports.

• Air India reported cancellations at nine airports, suspending flights from Amritsar, Gwalior, Jammu, Srinagar, and Hindon.

• SpiceJet canceled all services to and from Leh, Srinagar, Jammu, Dharamshala, Kandla, and Amritsar.

• Akasa Air suspended all flights to and from Srinagar until May 9.

Airspace Restrictions Confirmed by Flight Tracking Data

FlightRadar24 and other flight tracking platforms confirmed the airspace lockdown, revealing a complete absence of commercial flights over northern India except in Dehradun.

Airlines have used their official social media platforms to issue alerts about delays and cancellations, advising passengers to check flight status regularly. Most carriers are offering free rescheduling or full refunds for affected flights.

International Flights Rerouted or Canceled

Several international flights, especially from West Asia and Europe, have been rerouted. Major U.S. airlines such as United Airlines and American Airlines canceled scheduled departures to Delhi on May 6, 2025.

United Airlines released a statement:

“We have canceled our trip to New Delhi today due to the changing circumstances in South Asia and the ensuing restrictions on airspace. We will keep monitoring the situation and update our plans accordingly.”

What Travelers Should Know

Travelers are advised to:

• Check airline websites or apps for live updates

• Opt for refunds or rescheduling options

• Allow extra time for connecting flights due to potential delays

Conclusion

The temporary closure of 21 airports across northern India reflects the serious impact of geopolitical developments on air travel. With significant disruptions to both domestic and international flights, airlines and passengers alike are navigating an unpredictable situation. While airlines are working to minimize the inconvenience by offering refunds and flexible rescheduling, travelers should stay informed and plan accordingly. The situation remains fluid, and updates are expected as the security scenario in the region evolves closer to and beyond May 10, 2025.