As the India-Pakistan border tension escalates, the ripple effects are being felt across the nation’s aviation network. In a rare move driven by heightened national security measures, the central government has extended the temporary closure of 24 airports across northern and western India, including four in Rajasthan, until May 15.
This decision, coming in the wake of growing cross-border hostilities, has severely disrupted domestic air travel, grounding over 670 flights in just two days and reducing daily air traffic by more than 11 percent.
Which Airports in Rajasthan Are Affected?
According to the Ministry of Civil Aviation, the following airports in Rajasthan will remain non-operational until further notice:
- Kishangarh
- Jaisalmer
- Jodhpur
- Bikaner
Initially closed until May 10, these airports are now under an extended suspension until at least May 15. Airlines operating in these regions have issued statements confirming the cancellation of all scheduled flights during this period.
What’s the National Impact?
The airspace clampdown isn’t limited to Rajasthan. A total of 24 airports across several states and union territories have been temporarily shut. Here’s a regional breakdown:
- Punjab: Amritsar, Ludhiana, Patiala, Bathinda, Halwara, Pathankot
- Himachal Pradesh: Bhuntar, Shimla, Kangra (Gaggal)
- Chandigarh (UT): Chandigarh Airport
- Jammu & Kashmir: Srinagar, Jammu
- Ladakh: Leh
- Gujarat: Mundra, Jamnagar, Hirasar, Porbandar, Keshod, Kandla, Bhuj
The shutdown has led to the cancellation of approximately 670 flight routes, affecting 334 inbound and 336 outbound operations, based on Flightradar24 tracking data. Key airports like Srinagar, Chandigarh, and Amritsar are among the worst hit.
Why This Matters
Industry experts warn that such a massive disruption can have a domino effect on tourism, business travel, and logistical supply chains. April’s average daily flight count has already dropped from 3,265 to just 2,907, with more declines expected as the situation evolves.
Travelers flying to or from northern India are advised to monitor airline advisories and government updates closely. Passengers with bookings through May 15 may need to rebook or explore alternate transport modes.
The aviation industry, already battling post-pandemic recovery issues, now faces an unprecedented challenge as geopolitics directly impacts air mobility and route planning.
What Comes Next?
A fresh review of the security situation is expected before May 15. Until then, operations at the affected airports will remain suspended. Travelers are encouraged to rely only on official government portals and airline websites for updates, such as DGCA India or Air India.
Authorities have assured that the temporary closures are preventive in nature, aimed at ensuring public safety in sensitive border zones. If tensions ease, phased resumption of flights may begin post-May 15.
