India Shuts 32 Airports for Civilian Flights Amid Escalating Tensions with Pakistan

Amid rising India-Pakistan tensions, India has shut 32 airports in the north and west for civilian flights until May 15. The move follows retaliatory military strikes and drone attacks. The suspension aims to protect national airspace during heightened conflict and includes key airports near sensitive border and defence areas.

In response to rising military tensions with Pakistan, the Indian Ministry of Civil Aviation has announced the closure of 32 airports across northern and western India for civilian flight operations. The suspension will remain in effect until 5:29 am on May 15, 2025, according to an official release issued on Saturday.

The move follows heightened cross-border conflict, including India’s targeted strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir as part of Operation Sindoor. The action was a direct retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 civilian lives. Pakistan’s subsequent drone and missile attacks on 26 Indian locations further escalated the situation.

Earlier, the government had temporarily closed 24 airports in proximity to Pakistan’s border or near key defence installations. The updated list now includes 32 airports, and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has issued Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) indicating these closures due to operational concerns.

The decision is a precautionary measure aimed at securing national airspace amid ongoing military operations and potential aerial threats. CISF and local law enforcement have increased deployment at affected airports to ensure security and maintain order.

Also Read: X’s Global Affairs Account Withheld in India Amid Government Order to Block 8,000 Accounts

Here is the full list of the airports closed for civilian operations:
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 aviation ministry emphasized that further decisions will be made depending on the evolving security situation.