In a significant sign of de-escalation following days of military tension, India has begun reopening air operations at several airports that were shut amid the conflict with Pakistan. This move follows the ceasefire agreement reached between the two nations on May 10, bringing a temporary end to a four-day face-off sparked by India’s military offensive targeting terror infrastructure across the border.
Airspace restrictions, which were imposed after Indian forces struck nine terror camps in Pakistan on May 7 under the codename Operation Sindoor, had led to the suspension of civilian and some military flights across 32 airports and 25 air routes in northern and western India.
Although the ceasefire came into effect on May 10, it was briefly violated by Pakistani forces, prompting India to issue a stern warning. According to government sources, New Delhi made it clear that any further provocation would be met with a decisive response.
Despite the violation, the situation has remained largely stable since then, paving the way for phased resumption of air traffic. While the airspace curbs were originally scheduled to lift by Saturday morning, they were extended till 5:29 am on May 15 as a precautionary measure.
A senior official from the Ministry of Civil Aviation stated, “Flight operations will resume in phases, depending on security assessments. Passenger safety remains our top priority, but the easing of restrictions indicates a return to relative normalcy.”
Here’s the list of the 32 airports that were temporarily shut during the heightened security situation:
- Adampur
- 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
- Uttarlai
Flight carriers and airport authorities have been advised to coordinate closely with security agencies for safe and seamless reopening. Though cautious optimism prevails, military officials have confirmed that surveillance and readiness remain high.
