Monday, May 12, 2025
India Reopens 32 Airports in Northern and North-Western Regions Following Ceasefire Agreement
India’s aviation authorities have officially announced the reopening of 32 airports situated across the northern and north-western parts of the country, a significant development in the wake of heightened security tensions. This morning, airport officials confirmed that civil aircraft operations have resumed at major hubs, including Srinagar, Chandigarh, and Amritsar, marking the end of a temporary shutdown that had affected both domestic and international air traffic.
The closures, which began earlier this month, had been a direct consequence of increased military tensions between India and Pakistan. Following the launch of India’s “Operation Sindoor,” which involved airstrikes targeting suspected terrorist camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, airspace restrictions were imposed. As a result, 24 airports were initially closed on May 9, and this number grew to 32 by the weekend. Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) were issued, signaling the temporary closure of the airports.
The decision to lift the restrictions comes after a period of relative calm, with both New Delhi and Islamabad observing a ceasefire agreement. The sustained adherence to this ceasefire has been a pivotal factor in allowing air traffic to resume, providing relief to travelers and airlines alike.
A List of Reopened Airports
The reopening of these airports is expected to significantly enhance connectivity within India and to international destinations. The affected airports include both major hubs and smaller regional airports, with some of the most important being located in Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Haryana, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. A full list of airports now permitted to resume operations includes:
Srinagar (Jammu & Kashmir)
Chandigarh (Chandigarh)
Amritsar (Punjab)
Jaisalmer (Rajasthan)
Jamnagar (Gujarat)
Jodhpur (Rajasthan)
Adhampur (Jammu & Kashmir)
Ambala (Haryana)
Awantipur (Jammu & Kashmir)
Bathinda (Punjab)
Bhuj (Gujarat)
Bikaner (Rajasthan)
Halwara (Punjab)
Hindon (Uttar Pradesh)
Jammu (Jammu & Kashmir)
Kangra (Gaggal) (Himachal Pradesh)
Kandla (Gujarat)
Kishangarh (Rajasthan)
Keshod (Gujarat)
Kullu Manali (Bhuntar) (Himachal Pradesh)
Leh (Ladakh)
Ludhiana (Punjab)
Mundra (Gujarat)
Naliya (Gujarat)
Pathankot (Punjab)
Patiala (Punjab)
Porbandar (Gujarat)
Rajkot (Hirasar) (Gujarat)
Sarsawa (Uttar Pradesh)
Shimla (Himachal Pradesh)
Thoise (Ladakh)
Uttarlai (Rajasthan)
The Role of Airlines in Resuming Operations
Several Indian carriers, including prominent low-cost airlines IndiGo and SpiceJet, have announced their plans to restart flights to and from these reopened airports. IndiGo, known for its extensive domestic network, has already listed new flights to and from Amritsar and Jammu, while SpiceJet has scheduled operations to airports like Jodhpur and Bathinda.
The resumption of services is expected to boost regional connectivity significantly. These airports, once vital hubs for air travel in their respective regions, had seen a sharp decline in activity during the closure period. Airlines had suspended operations, leaving travelers to seek alternate routes. With the lifting of airspace restrictions, airlines are eager to reconnect passengers to key destinations within India and beyond.
Impact on Regional Connectivity and Economy
The reopening of these airports is not only an important step for the aviation industry but also crucial for the local economies of the affected regions. Many of these airports serve as lifelines to remote areas, with essential air connectivity being a key factor in sustaining business and tourism in regions such as Ladakh, Jammu & Kashmir, and Himachal Pradesh.
For the local population, the resumption of flights is expected to bring a sense of normalcy, particularly in regions like Jammu & Kashmir, where the loss of air connectivity had created significant logistical challenges. Similarly, in states like Gujarat and Rajasthan, where tourism is a major economic contributor, the reopening of airports is anticipated to stimulate the travel sector once again.
A Strategic Decision for National Security and Diplomacy
The closure and subsequent reopening of these airports underline the complex balance between national security and the need for economic and social continuity. While security concerns dictated the closure of these airports, the decision to reopen them signals a positive shift in India-Pakistan relations, with both sides adhering to a ceasefire that has allowed for the restoration of normal operations in the airspace.
The decision to resume flights was based on a thorough assessment of the security situation. Both Indian authorities and the relevant air traffic control bodies have worked in close coordination to ensure that the airspace remains safe for civil aircraft operations. The government’s commitment to national security remains unwavering, and measures will continue to be in place to ensure the safety of passengers and airline personnel.
Moving Forward: Strengthening India’s Aviation Infrastructure
With the resumption of operations at these key airports, India’s aviation sector can now focus on rebuilding and strengthening its infrastructure. These airports, many of which had remained underutilized during the closure period, will require investments in both operational and safety improvements to handle the expected surge in traffic.
Furthermore, the reopening of these airports marks an opportunity for the Indian government to invest in upgrading regional airports, ensuring they meet international safety and operational standards. This will not only improve passenger experience but also boost the country’s reputation as a key player in global aviation.
