Civilian Flights Resume at 32 Indian Airports
Commercial air services at thirty-two airports across northern and western India, which were temporarily suspended due to heightened security concerns, resumed operations with immediate effect today, Monday, May 12th. This significant step towards normalizing aviation activity follows an agreement reached between India and Pakistan on Saturday, May 10th, to de-escalate the recent border tensions.
Resumption of Air Services in Key Regions
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) confirmed in a press statement that the 32 airports, previously closed to civilian aircraft until May 15th, are operational. This decision was taken under instructions from the Indian Air Force (IAF) during the four-day conflict. Prominent airports affected included those in Chandigarh, Srinagar, Amritsar, Jammu, Leh, Jaisalmer, and Jodhpur, among others. The resumption is anticipated to ease air traffic congestion and benefit both domestic and international carriers.
Decision Follows Ceasefire Agreement
The reopening of airspace in these sensitive regions is a direct consequence of the mutual agreement between India and Pakistan to halt all military operations across land, air, and sea. This understanding was achieved following high-level talks between the Director Generals of Military Operations (DGMOs) of both nations, aimed at defusing the tense situation that had developed. Initially, 24 airports were impacted by the closure, with the number subsequently increasing to 32.
The AAI has advised travellers to directly contact their respective airlines and monitor airline websites for the most current information regarding their flight statuses. The reopening of these 32 airports marks a return towards normalcy in civilian air travel in the affected northern and western regions of India. This development is a positive outcome of the recent ceasefire discussions and a welcome relief for passengers and aviation industry.
