Attention flyers! After closure, 32 shut airports reopen; AAI urges flyers to consult airlines

India has reopened 32 airports across its northern and northwestern regions following a temporary airspace closure prompted by rising tensions with Pakistan. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) confirmed this morning that normal civil aircraft operations have resumed at all affected airports.

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Among the key airports now operational are Srinagar, Chandigarh, Amritsar, and Leh — crucial hubs for both commercial flights and military logistics. The closure, initially enforced until 05:29 AM on 15 May, was lifted earlier than expected. It had been imposed following India’s launch of Operation Sindoor, an anti-terror campaign targeting militant camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir.

“Attention Flyers: Airports previously closed for civil operations are now operational,” the AAI said in a public advisory. It urged passengers to consult individual airlines for updated flight schedules and to monitor official websites for changes.

The complete list of affected airports also includes strategic airstrips like Jammu, Jaisalmer, Hindon, Awantipur, and Thoise, indicating the wide geographic impact of the restriction.

The reopening signals a potential de-escalation after a tense week marked by military action and heightened cross-border rhetoric. However, aviation and defense analysts caution that the situation remains fluid, urging continued vigilance.

There has been no formal statement from Pakistan in response to the resumption of civil flights.