24 Airports Shut Amid India-Pakistan Tensions, Airlines Issue Travel Advisories
The Voice of Canada-The Voice of Chandigarh News:
In response to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, the Indian government has temporarily suspended operations at 24 airports across northern and western regions of the country. The suspension, taken as a precautionary measure, will remain in effect until May 15.
Which Airports Are Affected?
The following airports are currently closed to civilian flights:
- Srinagar (Jammu & Kashmir)
- Jammu (Jammu & Kashmir)
- Leh (Ladakh)
- Amritsar (Punjab)
- Chandigarh (Union Territory)
- Ludhiana (Punjab)
- Patiala (Punjab)
- Bhuntar (Himachal Pradesh)
- Shimla (Himachal Pradesh)
- Dharamshala (Himachal Pradesh)
- Pathankot (Punjab)
- Kishangarh (Rajasthan)
- Jaisalmer (Rajasthan)
- Bikaner (Rajasthan)
- Jodhpur (Rajasthan)
- Rajkot (Gujarat)
- Porbandar (Gujarat)
- Dehradun (Uttarakhand)
- Kullu (Himachal Pradesh)
- Udaipur (Rajasthan)
- Jaipur (Rajasthan)
- Gwalior (Madhya Pradesh)
- Agra (Uttar Pradesh)
- Bareilly (Uttar Pradesh)
Airline Response
Major domestic carriers such as IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air have cancelled or rescheduled several flights. Airlines have advised passengers to confirm their flight status before heading to the airport.
Delhi International Airport has also issued an advisory asking passengers to arrive at least three hours before departure due to enhanced security checks.
Advisory for Passengers:
- Check flight status: Contact your airline before departure to confirm your flight.
- Arrive early: Enhanced security screening is in place, so reach the airport well in advance.
- Review travel insurance: Ensure your policy covers cancellations or changes due to security situations.
- Have alternative travel plans: Be prepared for delays or cancellations.
This move comes amid heightened security concerns and is aimed at ensuring civilian safety. Passengers are urged to stay calm and rely only on official sources for updates.