**Title:** Temporary Suspension of Civil Flights at 32 Indian Airports
**Meta Description:** AAI announces a temporary halt to civil flight operations at 32 airports in northern and western India from May 9 to May 14, 2025, amid rising tensions.
**URL Slug:** civil-flights-suspended-india-airports
**Headline:** AAI Temporarily Suspends Civil Flight Operations at 32 Airports in India
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has announced a temporary suspension of all civil flight operations at 32 airports located in northern and western India. This closure will be in effect from May 9 to May 14, 2025. The affected airports include Adhampur, Ambala, Amritsar, Awantipur, Bathinda, Bhuj, Bikaner, Chandigarh, Halwara, Hindon, Jaisalmer, Jammu, Jamnagar, Jodhpur, Kandla, Kangra (Gaggal), Keshod, Kishangarh, Kullu Manali (Bhuntar), Leh, Ludhiana, Mundra, Naliya, Pathankot, Patiala, Porbandar, Rajkot (Hirasar), Sarsawa, Shimla, Srinagar, Thoise, and Uttarlai.
The NOTAM issued by the AAI states, “All civil flight activities at these airports will remain suspended during this period.” This decision follows the closure of 24 airports on May 8, which was later extended to May 15 due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan.
The suspension comes in light of heightened security concerns following India’s precision strikes targeting alleged terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. In response, Pakistan has conducted drone and missile attacks aimed at regions in Jammu, Punjab, and Rajasthan. Although Indian defense systems successfully intercepted these threats, aviation security measures have been significantly intensified.
Several airlines have already canceled flights to the affected airports. Air India has confirmed cancellations for flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Bhuj, Jamnagar, and Rajkot, offering passengers the option of a full refund or a one-time rescheduling waiver. IndiGo has also canceled services to multiple cities included in the NOTAM and has provided online resources for customers to check flight statuses, rebook, or request refunds.
Passengers are advised to arrive at least three hours prior to their scheduled departures due to increased screening procedures. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has implemented Secondary Ladder Point Checks (SLPC) for all travelers, suspended visitor access to terminals, and directed the deployment of Air Marshals as necessary. As a result of these precautionary measures, hundreds of flights have already been canceled.
In conclusion, the temporary suspension of civil flight operations at these 32 airports reflects the ongoing security concerns in the region. Travelers are encouraged to stay informed about their flight statuses and adhere to the new security protocols during this period.
**FAQ Section:**
**Q: Why have civil flight operations been suspended at these airports?**
A: The suspension is due to heightened security concerns following military escalations between India and Pakistan, prompting the AAI to prioritize passenger safety.
