Indian Airlines Cuts 100+ Flights Amid Pakistan Tensions
Travel Disruptions in Northern India: Airlines Issue Advisories Amid Rising Tensions
NEW DELHI — Air India (AI), SpiceJet (SG), and IndiGo (6E) have issued travel advisories following significant airport closures in northern India, specifically in Srinagar (SXR) and Amritsar (ATQ). These disruptions are a direct result of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, particularly in light of recent military operations. Passengers are encouraged to verify their flight statuses as these developments unfold.
This article explores the latest travel advisories from major airlines, the operational impacts on northern Indian airports, and the broader context of the current geopolitical climate.
Indian Airlines Cancel Flights Due to Geopolitical Tensions
Flight disruptions have surged following the tragic Pahalgam terror attack on April 22, 2025, which resulted in the loss of 26 lives, predominantly tourists. The Indian Ministry of Defence has confirmed that Operation Sindoor targeted nine terrorist camps in Pakistan, claiming the strikes were precise and meant to avoid escalation.
Key Points:
- Airspace restrictions have extended flight durations by up to 2.5 hours for routes to Europe, North America, and the Middle East.
- Fuel costs and airfares have risen by approximately 8-12%.
- Indian airlines could incur weekly losses ranging from ₹80 to ₹100 crore if airport closures continue.
Airports Closures Impacting Operations
In response to Operation Sindoor, initiated on May 7, 2025, Air India (AI), SpiceJet (SG), and IndiGo (6E) announced critical disruptions to flight operations across northern India. Security measures and airspace restrictions have led to the closure of several airports, including:
- Dharamshala (DHM)
- Leh (IXL)
- Jammu (IXJ)
- Srinagar (SXR)
- Amritsar (ATQ)
- Chandigarh (IXC)
- Bikaner (BKB)
Air India has suspended all flights to and from these locations until at least noon on May 7, 2025, due to safety concerns. Moreover, two international flights scheduled for Amritsar (ATQ) were diverted to Delhi (DEL), with IndiGo reporting that around 50 international routes may experience delays or alterations.
Airlines’ Response to the Situation
Air India (AI)
Air India has diverted international flights initially bound for Amritsar to Delhi. The airline emphasized on social media that passengers should check their flight statuses before heading to airports, highlighting safety as the top priority. They are also exploring alternative routing options, including potential refueling stops in Mumbai (BOM) or Ahmedabad (AMD).
IndiGo (6E)
IndiGo has issued advisories regarding flights to and from Srinagar (SXR), Jammu (IXJ), Amritsar (ATQ), Leh (IXL), Chandigarh (IXC), Dharamshala (DHM), and Bikaner (BKB). The airline has cancelled flights to Almaty (ALA) and Tashkent (TAS) until at least May 7, 2025, as these routes are now too distant for their Airbus A320 fleet.
SpiceJet (SG)
SpiceJet has informed passengers about potential disruptions at northern airports, which remain closed until further notice. The airline has extended waivers for rescheduling and cancellations for flights to Srinagar and has added an additional flight to Delhi to assist affected passengers.
Future Outlook for Indian Airlines
As Indian airlines navigate these challenges, they are implementing schedule adjustments, securing additional fuel supplies, and enhancing passenger communication. Air India is considering routes over Chinese airspace to bypass Pakistan and Afghanistan, contingent on safety modifications.
The Indian aviation industry is bracing for higher operational costs and potential shifts in premium travel to foreign carriers as tensions continue. The coming weeks will be critical in determining how these disruptions will affect air travel in the region.
For more information on travel advisories and updates, visit the official websites of Air India and IndiGo.
What are your thoughts on the ongoing situation? Share your views in the comments below, and check out related articles for more insights on air travel in India.
