As tensions rise along the India-Pakistan border following a targeted Indian response to the Pahalgam terror attacks, several domestic and international airlines have suspended or rerouted flights through northern India and Pakistan. The military operation, codenamed Operation Sindoor, has triggered unprecedented airspace restrictions and heightened security protocols, disrupting travel for thousands.
Here’s everything you need to know.
Why Are Flights Cancelled?
In retaliation for the terror attack in Pahalgam—where 26 civilians lost their lives—India launched precision airstrikes on three key terror camps located in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK). The strikes reportedly targeted:
- Mudrike, the operational base of Lashkar-e-Taiba (LeT)
- Bahawalpur, known as Jaish-e-Mohammad’s headquarters
- Select locations in PoK involved in terrorist training
With air defense units on high alert across the India-Pakistan border, the Airports Authority of India and major airlines have decided to halt operations in several sensitive areas.
Airlines That Have Issued Travel Advisories
Three major carriers—Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet—along with Qatar Airways, have issued urgent advisories for passengers.
Domestic Airline Advisories
Air India:
- Suspended all flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jodhpur, Chandigarh, Rajkot, and Jamnagar.
- Effective until 12 noon on May 7, with further updates expected based on evolving conditions.
- Two international flights destined for Amritsar were rerouted to Delhi.
IndiGo:
- Issued alerts warning passengers of potential delays or cancellations.
- Advises checking flight status before heading to the airport.
SpiceJet:
- Announced indefinite suspension of flights to/from:
- Srinagar (SXR)
- Jammu (IXJ)
- Leh (IXL)
- Amritsar (ATQ)
- Dharamshala (DHM)
- Urged travelers to stay updated via their website or mobile app.
International Flight Impacts
Qatar Airways:
- Temporarily paused all flights to Pakistan due to restricted airspace.
- The airline is “closely monitoring” the situation and prioritizing passenger safety.
Full List of Affected Airports and Airlines
To make it easy to understand, here’s a simplified table of disrupted operations:
| Airport | City | Status | Affected Airlines |
|---|---|---|---|
| SXR | Srinagar | Closed | Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet |
| IXJ | Jammu | Closed | Air India, SpiceJet |
| IXL | Leh | Closed | Air India, SpiceJet |
| ATQ | Amritsar | Closed | Air India, SpiceJet |
| DHM | Dharamshala | Closed | SpiceJet |
| JDH | Jodhpur | Suspended Flights | Air India |
| BHJ | Bhuj | Suspended Flights | Air India |
| IXC | Chandigarh | Suspended Flights | Air India |
| RAJ | Rajkot | Suspended Flights | Air India |
| ISB/LHE/KHI | Pakistan Cities | Closed Airspace | Qatar Airways |
Note: This information is current as of the morning of May 7 and is subject to change based on official notifications.
What Should Travelers Do?
- ✈️ Check real-time flight status on airline websites or apps.
- 📞 Reach out to customer support for rescheduling or refunds.
- 🧳 Avoid travel to the affected cities unless absolutely necessary.
- 🕐 Arrive early at unaffected airports due to potential security checks and congestion.
Global Reaction
India has reportedly briefed US Navy officials, including Chief Marco Rubio, about the military operation. US President Donald Trump commented, “We hope it ends very quickly,” indicating diplomatic efforts to de-escalate further tensions.
Meanwhile, Indian defense forces remain on high alert. “All air defense units along the border are activated to handle any eventuality,” a defense spokesperson confirmed.
The aftermath of Operation Sindoor has created temporary turbulence across northern India’s airspace. While the goal remains national security, airlines and airports are doing their best to minimize passenger inconvenience. Stay informed and plan accordingly.
Also read: Mock Drill in India: What Travelers Should Expect on May 7
We’ll keep this post updated as more advisories are issued.
Source: Financial Express
