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Flights Grounded: India-Pakistan Tensions Cause Air Travel Chaos
Travelers in northern India faced major disruptions on Tuesday, May 13th, 2025, as IndiGo and Air India cancelled numerous flights due to escalating tensions between India and Pakistan. The cancellations, a precautionary measure to ensure passenger safety, left many stranded and highlighted the unpredictable nature of geopolitical events on air travel.
The Fallout from Rising Tensions
The trigger for the widespread flight cancellations was a surge in drone activity near military zones in Jammu and Punjab on Monday, May 12th. The Indian Army responded swiftly, shooting down a drone near Jalandhar and confirming further drone sightings in the Samba district. Although the army clarified that no enemy drones were ultimately confirmed, the incidents prompted immediate security concerns.
- Precautionary Measures: Following the drone incidents, heightened security protocols were put in place across both civilian and military airspace. This led to the decision by aviation authorities to cancel flights as a precaution.
- Prime Minister's Address: Prime Minister Narendra Modi's address regarding the situation, coupled with a meeting between the Indian and Pakistani Directors General of Military Operations (DGMOs), underscored the seriousness of the geopolitical tensions.
The cancellations impacted several key airports in northern India, including Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, Srinagar, Rajkot, Jodhpur, Bhuj, and Jamnagar. Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), while remaining operational, issued warnings urging passengers to check their flight status frequently due to potential ripple effects from other airport closures.
Which Airlines Were Affected?
IndiGo and Air India, two of India's largest airlines, were the most significantly impacted. IndiGo suspended flights to and from Jammu, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Leh, Srinagar, and Rajkot. Air India cancelled flights to and from Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot.
Both airlines emphasized passenger safety as the primary reason for the cancellations and advised passengers to monitor their websites and apps for updates. The airlines offered flexible rebooking options for those affected.
Delhi Airport Advisory and Traveler Guidance
While Delhi Airport remained open, authorities advised passengers to:
- Stay Updated: Continuously check airline and airport websites for updates.
- Follow Baggage Rules: Be aware of stricter baggage regulations and potential delays.
- Arrive Early: Allow extra time for enhanced security checks.
- Cooperate with Staff: Follow instructions from airport and airline personnel.
- Rely on Official Sources: Avoid unverified information on social media.
The airport also warned of potentially longer wait times at security checkpoints.
Should You Reschedule Your Flight?
If you have a flight to or from one of the affected airports, it's wise to contact your airline immediately. Rescheduling might be necessary, and many airlines are offering flexible rebooking options. Staying informed through official channels is crucial.
A Partial Return to Normalcy – But Vigilance Remains Key
On May 12th, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) confirmed that flight operations resumed at 32 airports across the country. However, with tensions remaining high, continued vigilance is necessary. Travelers should continue to check flight statuses and heed official advisories.
Conclusion: Prioritizing Safety Amidst Uncertainty
The flight cancellations underscore the significant impact of rising geopolitical tensions on civilian air travel. While many airports have reopened, the situation remains fluid. By staying informed, flexible, and prioritizing official information sources, travelers can navigate these disruptions and ensure their safety.
