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Recent military actions by India have led to significant disruptions across key airports and airspace in northern India. From flight cancellations to tightened security protocols, here’s what travelers should be aware of to avoid surprises.
The ongoing geopolitical developments between India and Pakistan have once again spilled into the realm of air travel. Following recent Indian military operations, several northern airports have been temporarily shut down, forcing airlines and passengers to recalibrate their travel plans.
While India’s immigration services and other key transportation functions remain largely unaffected, travelers heading into or through affected regions should brace for changes, delays, and an evolving situation on the ground.
As of the latest advisory, the following airports in India are currently non-operational until further notice:
🔸Srinagar (SXR)
🔸Jammu (IXJ)
🔸Leh (IXL)
🔸Jodhpur (JDH)
🔸Amritsar (ATQ)
🔸Bhuj (BHJ)
🔸Jamnagar (JGA)
🔸Dharamshala (DHM)
The closure of these critical airports, especially Srinagar and Jammu which serve as gateways to the Kashmir region, has created a ripple effect throughout domestic routes. Airlines have scrambled to adjust flight schedules, while passengers are experiencing unprecedented disruptions.
🔸Expect last-minute cancellations and delays across northern sectors.
🔸Enhanced screening and security checks have been reported even at airports outside the immediate conflict zone.
🔸Plan for alternative routes or transportation if your itinerary involves any of the impacted cities.
🔸Stay updated via official airline channels, DGCA advisories, or the respective airport websites.
Given the fluid nature of the situation, closures and restrictions may extend to additional airports without much notice.
International airlines are also feeling the pinch of the escalating situation. Several carriers have started rerouting flights to avoid the restricted airspace over northern India and Pakistan.
Flights that would typically traverse over Jammu & Kashmir are now being diverted over central or southern corridors, adding extra flying time and logistical complexities.
🔸Check directly with your airline for updated flight paths and schedules.
🔸Expect longer journey times on routes between Europe, the Middle East, and Southeast Asia transiting India.
🔸Prepare for added scrutiny at Indian immigration and customs checkpoints, though the core immigration processes remain unaffected.
Citing safety and operational challenges, multiple international and Indian carriers have temporarily suspended flights to parts of northern India. These suspensions are mostly limited to the cities whose airports are already shut, but some carriers have opted for broader suspensions out of caution.
Current Known Suspensions:
🔸Services to Srinagar, Jammu, Leh, and Amritsar are largely halted across all major airlines.
🔸Several Middle Eastern airlines have paused services to northern Indian sectors temporarily.
These suspensions are reviewed on a rolling basis, depending on security advisories and airspace openings.
In these challenging times, the best defense for travelers is information and flexibility.
🔸Monitor updates from your airline and India’s DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation).
🔸Use trusted travel advisory websites or official government portals for real-time updates.
🔸If traveling for non-essential purposes to affected areas, consider rescheduling or rerouting.
🔸Expect delays at airports throughout India, even if not directly affected by closures, due to heightened security.
Importantly, India’s overall immigration, customs, and consular operations remain unaffected, ensuring that travelers who can adjust their routes can still enter and exit the country without major administrative hurdles.
Geopolitical developments can often change the travel landscape overnight. While the current India-Pakistan situation is concerning, India’s aviation authorities and airlines are working diligently to manage the disruptions and ensure passenger safety. For now, the best approach is to stay informed, remain flexible, and consult only official and credible sources for travel updates.
For the latest advisories, travelers are encouraged to consult:
Your airline’s official website or customer service channels
What airports in India are currently closed due to the India-Pakistan situation?
As of May 8, 2025, airports in Srinagar, Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, and Dharamshala are non-operational.
Are international flights still operating to India?
Yes, but with possible rerouting due to restricted airspace. Always check with your airline for updated flight paths.
Are airlines offering refunds for canceled flights?
Policies vary by airline, but many are offering flexible rebooking options or vouchers due to the force majeure nature of the situation.
Is it safe to travel to India right now?
Most of India remains safe for travel, except the northern areas near the India-Pakistan border. Follow government advisories closely.
What should I expect at Indian airports amid this situation?
Heightened security screenings and possible delays even at airports not directly affected by closures.
Will this situation affect Indian immigration services?
Currently, India’s immigration department remains fully operational across the country.
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