In response to escalating tensions with Pakistan, the Indian government has temporarily suspended operations at 27 airports across northern, western, and central regions of the country. The move comes after a series of Pakistani drone and missile attacks targeted Indian cities in Jammu, Punjab, Gujarat, and Rajasthan, leading to heightened security concerns. The Times ofa + 1 AP News
As a result of these closures, Indian airlines have canceled hundreds of flights, amounting to approximately 3% of the country's total scheduled flights. Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for the latest updates and to plan their travel accordingly. The Times ofa + 1 ABC News+1
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has issued directives to all airlines and airports to enhance security measures. These include thorough vehicle checks at airport terminals, verification of passenger IDs before entry, random scrutiny of luggage, and the deployment of air marshals.
In addition to domestic disruptions, international flight operations have also been affected. Several foreign carriers, including Korean Air, EVA Air, Thai Airways, Malaysia Airlines, and Batik Air, have rerouted or suspended flights to avoid the conflict zone. Flight tracking data indicates a near-complete shutdown of flights over Pakistani airspace. Reuters+2 s Insider + 2 Wikipedia
The situation remains volatile, with both nations engaging in artillery exchanges and airstrikes. The Indian government has emphasized that these measures are precautionary and aimed at ensuring the safety of passengers and the general public. Al Jazeera+3 Reuters+3AP News+3