Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) resumed regular operations on Saturday, following a temporary disruption caused by heightened security concerns and airspace restrictions.
The airport issued a detailed travel advisory to passengers, urging them to be mindful of potential delays and increased processing times due to escalated security measures linked to ongoing tensions between India and Pakistan. The advisory, released early on Saturday morning, reassured travellers that normal operations had resumed at the airport. However, it also cautioned that ongoing security protocols, as mandated by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), could affect flight schedules and cause longer waiting times at security checkpoints. The advisory underlined the importance of arriving at the airport early, advising passengers to factor in additional time for potential delays and security checks.
The airport’s message to passengers was clear: stay informed through official channels, avoid relying on unverified sources, and follow all regulations related to hand baggage and check-in luggage. Passengers were also urged to stay connected with their respective airlines for the latest flight updates and to cooperate with security staff during the enhanced security screenings. While the heightened security measures led to disruptions in flight schedules, airport authorities assured the public that the situation remained under control. As per the advisory, “Delhi Airport operations are normal at present,” with the emphasis on adhering to security guidelines to ensure the smooth flow of airport procedures.
Despite the ongoing tensions, the airport maintained that air traffic remained functional. However, an increased presence of security personnel and routine surveillance marked the operational landscape for the day. The heightened security measures were instated in response to potential threats stemming from escalating tensions between the two neighbouring nations. The situation at Delhi’s IGIA is reflective of broader operational challenges faced by several airports across northern and western India. According to notices issued by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), a temporary closure has been enforced at 32 airports, primarily those located in the northern and western regions. This measure, which will remain in place until May 14, 2025, has affected civil aviation activities at critical locations such as Jammu, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Jaisalmer, and Srinagar. The closure, as confirmed by aviation authorities, was implemented in response to heightened security concerns following recent aerial incidents near the India-Pakistan border.
The temporary closure of these airports is expected to have a ripple effect on domestic and international flight operations, with cancellations and delays continuing to affect travel plans. The airports affected include some of the most significant air travel hubs in the region, including Jammu, Amritsar, and Chandigarh, which are key for both civilian and military operations. The Airports Authority of India issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) to guide air traffic operations in the affected areas. Flight cancellations and delays have led to significant disruptions for passengers, with some international flights and domestic routes seeing cancellations, especially on routes connected to airports located near the border.
The intensified security measures are linked to the discovery of drone activity along critical military and civilian locations in northern and western India. According to defence sources, drones were spotted at several sites along the India-Pakistan border, ranging from Jammu and Kashmir in the north to Bhuj in the south. These drones are suspected to be armed, and authorities are closely monitoring their movements to prevent any potential threats to military bases and civilian infrastructure. Among the locations where drones have been observed are Baramulla, Srinagar, Jammu, and Pathankot, all of which are in proximity to sensitive military zones and the Line of Control (LoC). The presence of drones in these areas has triggered security alerts, as they are suspected to be carrying payloads for potential attacks or surveillance. Military and aviation authorities have ramped up their operations to counter this threat, ensuring that any potential drone incursions are swiftly dealt with.
The detection of these drones highlights the ongoing volatility in the region, as tensions between India and Pakistan remain at elevated levels. This has directly impacted aviation operations, especially in the northern regions where airspace is more tightly controlled. With several military bases on high alert, authorities are prioritising security and safety over the smoothness of flight schedules. While the situation in Delhi remained stable, airport authorities continued to issue regular updates, encouraging passengers to stay informed about the status of their flights. The travel advisory provided clear instructions on how to navigate the airport during these heightened security conditions. For example, passengers were reminded to arrive three hours prior to their flight’s scheduled departure, which is the standard recommendation during periods of increased security.
The airport authorities also reiterated the importance of keeping updated with the latest information from airlines and the official Delhi Airport website. The latter would serve as a reliable source for flight status updates, gate changes, and other relevant details. With airlines also issuing similar advisories, it became clear that the operational landscape at Delhi Airport would be characterised by delays, security checks, and heightened vigilance. The ongoing security measures are not only impacting flight schedules but also causing disruptions for airline operations. Airlines have been forced to adjust their timetables to accommodate the temporary restrictions on airspace and airport closures. Passengers have been left grappling with the uncertainty of flight cancellations, delays, and diversions.
For many, this has meant significant changes to their travel plans, as well as the added stress of navigating heightened security protocols. Airlines are advising travellers to check their flight status regularly, as cancellations and delays could persist until the situation stabilises. Despite these challenges, both the airport authorities and airlines are working together to ensure that safety remains the top priority. In the coming days, passengers may experience fluctuating levels of congestion and flight irregularities as operations return to normal. However, the overarching message from authorities remains clear: safety first, followed by the resumption of regular services.
The resumption of normal operations at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport marks a significant step forward in restoring confidence among passengers, though the travel landscape remains under the shadow of heightened security concerns. With both civil aviation and military authorities working in tandem to address the threats posed by drone activity and regional tensions, the focus remains on the safety of the public and the integrity of air operations. As the situation develops, passengers are urged to stay updated, follow official advisories, and remain patient while the authorities navigate these security challenges. The operational landscape at Delhi Airport, though disrupted, reflects the ongoing balance between safety and operational continuity.
Also Read : Over 130 Flights Cancelled at Delhi Airport Amid Tensions
