New Delhi: In a significant sign of easing tensions between India and Pakistan, all 32 airports that were temporarily closed due to heightened conflict concerns have now been reopened. With the situation along the border reportedly returning to calm, authorities have given the green light for the gradual resumption of air travel in the affected regions.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) issued a directive today to reopen the airports that had been shut down across northern and northwestern India. These closures were a precautionary measure in response to escalating cross-border tensions, which had prompted aviation authorities to halt operations to ensure public safety.
Earlier, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) had announced that flight restrictions at several airports would remain in place until May 15. However, with the current improvement in security assessments and stabilization along the frontier, officials decided to lift those restrictions ahead of schedule.
Key airports such as Srinagar, Amritsar, and Chandigarh — which serve as major gateways to the northern region — have resumed operations and are now open for civilian use. The move is expected to restore normalcy to travel plans disrupted by the earlier suspensions.
Passengers are advised to stay in touch with their respective airlines for real-time updates on schedules and services. Airlines are also updating their websites regularly to reflect changes in flight status as operations normalize.
The airports affected by the closure included major and regional hubs like Adampur, Ambala, Awantipora, Bathinda, Bhuj, Bikaner, Halwara, Hindon, Jammu, Jaisalmer, Jamnagar, Jodhpur, Kandla, Kangra (Gagal), Keshod, Kishangarh, Kullu-Manali (Bhuntar), Leh, Ludhiana, Mundra, Nalia, Pathankot, Patiala, Porbandar, Rajkot (Hirasar), Sarsava, Shimla, Thoise, and Uttar Leh.
The reopening of these airports signals a return to relative stability in the region and offers reassurance to travelers and residents alike. Authorities continue to monitor the situation, but the decision to resume air travel reflects growing confidence that the immediate threat has subsided.