The Civil Aviation Ministry has announced the temporary closure of 24 airports across the country, effective Thursday evening, due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan. This follows an escalation in hostilities, including a Pakistani drone and missile strike targeting Indian cities in Jammu, Punjab, Gujarat, and Rajasthan.
In light of the heightened security concerns, multiple Indian airlines have issued travel advisories, advising passengers to stay informed and cooperate with increased security measures at the airports.
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The Ministry of Civil Aviation has not disclosed the duration of the airport closures or the specific reasons behind the decision. However, these closures are part of a broader security protocol, with many of the affected airports located near international borders or in areas of strategic importance.
The temporary suspension of civil flights is expected to disrupt travel across northern and western India, and passengers are advised to verify their flight details with airlines before heading to the airport.
In response to the heightened threat, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has instructed airlines and airports across India to implement enhanced security measures. These include a Secondary Ladder Point Check (SLPC), commonly known as pre-boarding inspections, at all terminals.
Additionally, airport vehicles will undergo thorough screening, ID checks will be enforced, and random luggage checks will be carried out. Access to terminal buildings for visitors has been restricted, and Air Marshals will be deployed as necessary.
The BCAS issued the following directive:
“In light of the recent Pahalgam attack and the overall surge in security concerns, it is essential to increase security across all civil aviation facilities—airports, airstrips, airfields, air force stations, helipads, and aviation-related institutions—to prevent any untoward incidents. All stakeholders must exercise maximum caution.”
Air India has issued the following notice:
“Due to BCAS orders regarding enhanced security measures, passengers are advised to arrive early for check-in and boarding. Check-in will close 75 minutes before departure.”
Similarly, Akasa Air stated:
“Given the heightened security at all airports, we recommend passengers arrive at least three hours prior to their departure to ensure a smooth check-in process.”
IndiGo, India’s largest airline, issued a statement advising:
“Due to the current security climate, heightened measures are in place at all airports. Passengers should plan for extra time to account for security checks. We appreciate your cooperation.”
With the geopolitical situation remaining tense, aviation officials and airline personnel are working closely with national security agencies to maintain smooth operations while ensuring the safety of all passengers.
In addition to the airport disruptions, several states have also closed schools, enforced blackouts in border districts, and suspended leave for police officers and administrators.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri addressed the situation, stating, “Pakistan escalated the situation, and our response was a direct reaction. The choice lies with Pakistan. Our goal is not escalation but rather responding to the terrorist attack in Pahalgam on April 22.”
