Delhi Airport Issues Travel Advisory Amid India-Pakistan Tensions; Flight Operations Resume With Enhanced Security

KKN Gurugram Desk | The Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in Delhi resumed normal operations early Saturday morning after a brief disruption caused by escalating military conflict between India and Pakistan. However, in light of the ongoing geopolitical tensions and reinforced air security protocols, Delhi Airport has issued a detailed travel advisory for all passengers.

The airport has warned of potential delays in security processing and possible flight schedule changes, urging travelers to plan ahead and remain updated through official channels only.

Official Travel Advisory: 5 Important Instructions for Passengers

The travel advisory from Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), released on May 10, 2025, underlines that flight operations are currently running normally, but the dynamic airspace situation and orders from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) may affect scheduled departures and arrivals.

 Passengers are advised to follow these 5 guidelines:

1. Stay updated with your airline for real-time flight changes.

2. Follow baggage regulations for both hand luggage and check-in baggage.

3. Arrive early at the airport to account for potential delays at security checkpoints.

4. Cooperate fully with airline staff and airport security to streamline operations.

5. Verify your flight status on official airline or Delhi Airport websites.

The advisory also includes a public awareness message, urging passengers to rely solely on verified information and avoid sharing or forwarding unconfirmed news on social media.

Why the Advisory? India-Pakistan Military Conflict Sparks Airspace Caution

The travel advisory comes in response to a major security escalation between India and Pakistan. Defense sources report that 26 weaponized drones were detected along India’s international borders and LoC—from Baramulla in Jammu & Kashmir to Bhuj in Gujarat—raising alarms about possible airspace threats.

These drones are suspected to be equipped with payloads capable of targeting both civilian and military infrastructure, prompting a high alert across the northern and western zones of Indian airspace.

Temporary Shutdown of 32 Airports Across North and West India

As a result of heightened tensions, the Airports Authority of India (AAI), along with other aviation regulators, issued multiple NOTAMs (Notices to Airmen) on May 9, 2025. These directives called for the temporary suspension of civil flight operations at 32 airports until May 14, 2025 (05:29 IST).

 List of Airports Under Temporary Suspension:

1. Adampur

2. Ambala

3. Amritsar

4. Awantipur

5. Bathinda

6. Bhuj

7. Bikaner

8. Chandigarh

9. Halwara

10. Hindon

11. Jaisalmer

12. Jammu

13. Jamnagar

14. Jodhpur

15. Kandla

16. Kangra (Gaggal)

17. Keshod

18. Kishangarh

19. Kullu-Manali (Bhuntar)

20. Leh

21. Ludhiana

22. Mundra

23. Naliya

24. Pathankot

25. Patiala

26. Porbandar

27. Rajkot (Hirasar)

28. Sarsawa

29. Shimla

30. Srinagar

31. Thoise

32. Uttarlai

These shutdowns aim to free up air corridors for military aircraft operations and minimize risk to civilian aviation amid potential airspace incursions or conflict escalation.

Drone Activity: Surveillance and Threats at Border Points

According to military intelligence, drones were spotted flying across multiple sensitive sectors including:

• Baramulla

• Srinagar

• Awantipora

• Nagrota

• Jammu

• Firozpur

• Pathankot

• Fazilka

• Lalgarh Jatta

• Jaisalmer

• Barmer

• Bhuj

• Kuarbet

• Lakhi Nala

These UAVs are under investigation, with authorities suspecting attempts to survey or target high-value military and civilian assets. Indian Air Force and Border Security Forces are actively tracking movements and deploying counter-UAV systems.

India’s Air Defense Readiness on High Alert

To respond to any aerial threat, India has already activated advanced air defense systems, including:

• S-400 Triumf (long-range surface-to-air missile system)

• L-70 anti-aircraft guns

• ZU-23-2 defense guns

• Shilka self-propelled anti-aircraft weapons

These systems are now operational across multiple border sectors, ensuring layered aerial protection for both civilian and military infrastructure.

Impact on Flyers: Delays, Longer Wait Times Likely

Due to these security enhancements and limited air corridor availability, the following impacts on commercial passengers are expected:

• Longer wait times at check-in and security screening

• Possible flight delays or rescheduling due to airspace prioritization

• Increased baggage and document checks, especially on flights to/from northern India

• More frequent ID verification and random screening

Passengers are advised to arrive at least 3-4 hours before departure, particularly for international flights, and to check flight status frequently using the airline’s official platforms.

Social Media and Misinformation Warning

Delhi Airport and aviation authorities have strongly advised against spreading unverified content related to flight disruptions, drone threats, or airspace operations.

The public is urged to:

• Avoid forwarding unofficial WhatsApp messages or tweets

• Report suspicious aerial activity to authorities

• Use only verified news outlets and government updates for information

Public Reactions and Traveler Experience

Several passengers took to social media early Saturday to share their experiences, ranging from delayed boarding processes to enhanced police presence at terminal gates.

“The security was tight, but airport staff were cooperative. We were informed ahead of time and managed everything without panic,” one traveler posted on X (formerly Twitter).

What’s Next: Monitoring and Advisory Updates Expected

The Indian Civil Aviation Ministry has confirmed that daily updates will be issued depending on military activity, drone surveillance, and air traffic control adjustments.

Passengers flying between May 9 to May 15, 2025, especially to/from North India, are urged to:

• Reconfirm their bookings

• Monitor NOTAMs on the AAI website

• Avoid last-minute travel unless necessary

While Delhi Airport has resumed operations, the overall situation in Indian airspace remains highly dynamic due to the ongoing India-Pakistan conflict. With drones spotted across the border and missile defenses on high alert, civilian aviation will continue to face disruptions.