In response to escalating military tensions between India and Pakistan, the Indian Air Force’s (IAF) Hindon Airbase in Ghaziabad, along with 20 other airports across northern and western India, has suspended all commercial flight operations until 5:30 AM on Saturday, May 10, 2025. This precautionary measure follows India’s recent airstrikes on terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir, part of ‘Operation Sindoor,’ conducted after a deadly terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 22, which claimed 26 lives. ETInfra.comThe Indian Express+5India Today+5mint+5
Affected Airports and Airlines
The suspension impacts several key airports, including Srinagar, Jammu, Leh, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Jodhpur, Bikaner, Gwalior, Rajkot, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Dharamshala, Bathinda, Shimla, Hindon, Kishangarh, and Kandla. Most of these airports are located at defense airfields and typically handle a limited number of commercial flights daily.Hindustan Times+6The Indian Express+6mint+6
Airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Air India Express, and Akasa Air have canceled flights to and from the affected airports. Air India Express has suspended flights to Amritsar, Gwalior, Jammu, Srinagar, and Hindon, offering full refunds or free rescheduling for affected passengers. IndiGo has canceled over 165 flights, including routes to Amritsar, Bikaner, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, Gwalior, Jammu, Jodhpur, Kishangarh, Leh, Rajkot, and Srinagar. Reuters+2mint+2mint+2The Times of India+2ETInfra.com+2mint+2Aviation Week
International Flight Disruptions
The airspace restrictions have also affected international carriers. Airlines such as United Airlines, Korean Air, Lufthansa, KLM, Singapore Airlines, and Thai Airways have rerouted or canceled flights to avoid the affected airspace. These adjustments have led to longer flight durations and increased operational costs. The Indian Express+3mint+3YouTube+3Reuters
Passenger Advisory
Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest updates on flight schedules and to make necessary adjustments to their travel plans. Airlines are providing options for refunds or rescheduling to accommodate affected travelers.ETInfra.com+1The Indian Express+1
The situation remains fluid, and authorities are closely monitoring developments. Further updates will be provided as more information becomes available.
Airlines Re-route, Cancel Flights Due to India-Pakistan Tensions