India-Pakistan Tensions Disrupt Air Travel: Key Airline Advisories and Security Measures in Effect

Enhanced Security Measures and Airline Advisories: What You Need to Know Amid India-Pakistan Tensions (Image: PTI)

Air travel across northern and western India has come under significant strain following India’s recent cross-border military action, Operation Sindoor, launched in retaliation to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 civilian lives. The strike targeted terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK), prompting a heightened military alert from both nations.

In the wake of these developments, the Indian government has directed civil aviation authorities to enforce strict security measures at all airports through May 18, 2025. More than 430 domestic flights have already been cancelled, and major carriers such as IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air have issued detailed travel advisories. International flights are also experiencing delays and rerouting due to restricted airspace over the region.

New Airport Security Measures in Effect

The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has implemented enhanced protocols across all Indian airports. Passengers should take note of the following key changes:

1. No Visitor Entry: Access to airport terminals is restricted to ticketed passengers only.

2. Suspension of Visitor Tickets: Sale of visitor entry passes has been discontinued until further notice.

3. Secondary Security Screening: Mandatory Secondary Ladder Point Security Checks (LPSC) screening for all passengers and their baggage jwill be conducted at boarding gates for both domestic and international flights.

4. Strict Verification Procedures: Airlines must thoroughly review passenger lists, cargo manifests, and catering supplies.

5. Heightened Surveillance: Increased monitoring in cargo loading zones, maintenance hangars, and private aviation terminals.

6. Arrive Early: All travellers are strongly urged to reach the airport at least three hours prior to departure to accommodate extended screening processes.

India-Pakistan Tensions Disrupt Air Travel: Key Airline Advisories and Strict Security Protocols in Place (Image: PTI)

Airline-Specific Travel Advisories

Air India

Air India has suspended operations to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot until 5:29 AM on May 10, 2025. Passengers affected by these changes are eligible for a full refund or one-time rescheduling at no extra charge.

In addition, defence personnel travelling on concessional fares with tickets booked until May 31 can claim a full refund or reschedule travel until June 30, acknowledging their service commitments.

The airline has reinforced BCAS directives, urging all passengers to arrive early and reminding them that check-in counters close 75 minutes before departure.

IndiGo

IndiGo has cancelled flights on routes connecting Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Kishangarh, and Rajkot until 11:59 PM on May 10. Travellers with bookings made on or before May 8 for travel up to May 22 can reschedule or cancel their plans without incurring any penalty.

SpiceJet

SpiceJet has temporarily halted flights to and from Leh, Srinagar, Jammu, Dharamshala, Kandla, and Amritsar through 5:29 AM on May 10. The airline has encouraged passengers to arrive well in advance but has not yet announced any official fee waivers. Passengers are advised to monitor SpiceJet’s website and communication channels for updates.

Akasa Air

Akasa Air continues operations but has advised passengers to follow strict protocols:

• Arrive at least three hours before departure
• Carry a valid government-issued photo ID for terminal access
• Limit cabin baggage to one item weighing up to 7 kg
• Prepare for mandatory secondary screening before boarding

Delhi Airport Status

According to Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL), operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport are currently stable. However, on May 8, approximately 90 flights were cancelled due to temporary airspace restrictions and evolving security conditions. Passengers are urged to confirm flight status before proceeding to the airport.

International Flight Disruptions

The ripple effects of regional tensions have reached international airspace as well. Several global carriers are rerouting flights to avoid Pakistani airspace, impacting travel times on popular Europe-Asia routes. Travellers should anticipate longer journeys and stay informed through airline advisories.

Travel Checklist for Passengers

• Check your flight status with the airline before heading to the airport.
• Reach the airport at least 3 hours early to clear extended security checks.
• Carry valid ID and keep cabin luggage to a minimum.
• Follow official airline and airport social media handles for live updates.

These stringent measures and travel advisories aim to safeguard passengers during a period of heightened geopolitical tension. Airlines and security agencies are working to minimize disruption while maintaining safety. Travellers are urged to remain patient, plan ahead, and cooperate with airport staff and security personnel.