The escalating conflict between India and Pakistan is now significantly impacting the aviation sector, with at least 11% of India’s daily domestic air traffic disrupted due to the closure of 24 airports across the country, industry data revealed on Friday.
According to the latest figures, the average daily domestic flights decreased from 3,265 in April to 2,907 as of May 8, marking a substantial decline in air connectivity.
According to live tracking data from FlightRadar24, more than 670 domestic airline routes, including 334 incoming and 336 outgoing flights, are expected to be affected between May 9 and 10.
Major Airports Affected in the Northern and Western Regions
Given their proximity to the conflict zone, airports in Srinagar, Chandigarh, Amritsar, Jammu, and Leh are among the most impacted. Several other airports, including Patiala, Bhuntar, Pathankot, Bikaner, Jaisalmer, Mundra, Keshod, and Rajkot, have also ceased operations, further widening the disruption across northern and western India.
Flight delays are not limited to these zones. Metro cities such as Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, Kolkata, and Chennai are experiencing arrival delays, while departures are being affected more severely, according to data.
Delhi Airport Remains Operational Amid Security Concerns
Despite the rising tensions, Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport remained open on Friday, although broader airspace changes and heightened security alerts impacted operations.
Delhi Airport operations remain normal. Some flights are affected due to changing airspace conditions and heightened security measures. Please check with your airlines for the latest updates.”
— Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) on X
“We are working closely with all stakeholders to minimise any inconvenience.”
— DIAL added
Airlines Respond with Cancellations and Advisory Alerts
Low-cost airline IndiGo announced it may cancel up to 500 flights, urging passengers to stay informed.
“Your safety is paramount, and we are here to help you travel with ease.”
— IndiGo said in a post on X
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has also issued an advisory to airlines and airports nationwide, mandating enhanced security protocols and encouraging passengers to arrive at check-in earlier.
“Due to an order from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security regarding enhanced security measures at airports, passengers are encouraged to allow extra time for check-in and boarding. Check-in will close 75 minutes before departure.”
— Air India said in a statement
International Flights Remain Largely Stable
While domestic traffic has taken a significant hit, international air traffic remains relatively stable, with only a minor drop from 616 to 604 daily flights, indicating that the current restrictions are localized mainly.
Outlook: Ongoing Conflict Threatens Broader Aviation Impact
As regional instability grows, industry analysts warn that prolonged airport shutdowns and shifting airspace rules could create more profound disruptions, especially with the busy summer travel season underway. Passengers must stay updated via official airline channels and prepare for additional security checks at major hubs.
–Input IANS
