Operation Sindoor: 25 Indian Airports Closed on May 9–10 – Full List & Travel Advisory

In a significant development that’s set to impact air travel across India, 25 airports will temporarily suspend commercial flight operations for two days as part of a critical military exercise known as Operation Sindoor. This move, initiated by the Indian Air Force (IAF), is a strategic effort to enhance national defense preparedness.

For passengers who have booked tickets or plan to travel during the affected days, this sudden change raises many concerns. Here’s a detailed look into the operation, the reason behind these closures, and what travelers can do to minimize disruption.

What is Operation Sindoor?

Operation Sindoor is a high-priority military exercise led by the Indian Air Force. It is designed to simulate wartime scenarios and test the coordination between defense forces using civilian infrastructure such as shared-use airports.

The operation enables the Air Force to:

• Assess military readiness and coordination

• Carry out aircraft deployment drills in real-time scenarios

• Practice the rapid transition of civil airports into defense zones

• Evaluate emergency protocols in collaboration with local authorities

The operation is being carried out in collaboration with the Ministry of Civil Aviation and is a part of regular national security preparedness initiatives.

List of Airports Closed During Operation Sindoor

Below is a table listing the 25 airports across various states and union territories that will be closed for two days to facilitate Operation Sindoor. These airports are typically dual-use facilities that serve both civilian and military purposes.

These airports will be exclusively used by the Indian Air Force during the two-day military exercise.

When Will These Airports Be Closed?

Passengers should note the following closure schedule:

• Dates of Closure: May 9 and May 10, 2025

• Duration: Entire 48-hour period (subject to operational requirements)

Airports are expected to resume normal commercial operations after the conclusion of the military drill, depending on clearance from relevant authorities.

Why Are Civil Airports Being Closed for Military Use?

The use of civilian airports in military drills is a carefully considered strategy to:

• Test how swiftly civil infrastructure can support defense operations in emergencies

• Enhance coordination between civilian aviation authorities and defense forces

• Simulate real-world emergencies where such dual-use scenarios may become essential

While it may temporarily inconvenience passengers, the long-term national benefits of readiness and training far outweigh the disruption.

What Should Passengers Do If Their Flight Is Affected?

Travelers who have booked flights on or around May 9–10, 2025, should act swiftly to avoid last-minute hassles. Here are some practical steps:

Key Recommendations for Affected Travelers

• Check Your Flight Status Immediately
  Visit the airline’s official website or contact customer service to confirm whether your flight is canceled or rescheduled.

• Look for Official Airline Notifications
  Most airlines will notify passengers via email, SMS, or app alerts. If you haven’t received one, initiate contact.

• Request Rescheduling or Refunds
  Airlines are offering flexible rebooking options or full refunds. Take advantage of this to avoid financial loss.

• Consider Alternate Airports or Travel Dates
  If you still need to travel urgently, check nearby operational airports or move your travel to a safer window.

• Coordinate With Other Bookings
  If your itinerary includes connecting flights, train tickets, hotel bookings, or cab reservations, make timely changes to avoid additional costs.

• Stay Updated With Reliable Sources
  Monitor the official handles of the DGCA, Airports Authority of India, or Indian Air Force for real-time information.

What Are Airlines and Authorities Doing to Help?

To ease the impact on travelers, airlines are working closely with the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and airport authorities. Most carriers have adopted the following support measures:

• Waiving Change Fees: Airlines are allowing free date changes for affected routes.

• Full Refunds: Passengers can cancel and receive full refunds without penalties.

• Flexible Rebooking: Alternate flights are being provided based on availability.

• 24×7 Customer Support: Airlines have ramped up support teams to handle increased queries.

Passengers are encouraged to act early, as seat availability for alternate flights may become limited closer to the travel dates.

FAQs:

1. Will all flights from these 25 airports be canceled during the two-day period?

Yes, most commercial flights from these airports will be suspended for 48 hours. Some airports may only allow limited movement for emergency or special operations, but this will not apply to regular passengers. Always check with your airline for specific details.

2. Can I reschedule my flight without paying a fee?

Yes. Airlines are offering free date changes for passengers affected by the closures. Some may even allow destination changes within a certain radius. Contact your airline’s customer support to initiate the process.

3. Will international flights be impacted?

International flights operating from affected airports may face cancellations or rescheduling. If your international itinerary includes any of the closed airports, coordinate with the airline or travel agent to make alternate arrangements.

4. How can I stay updated on real-time changes or reopening information?

Follow updates from the following official sources:

• The airline’s official app or website

• DGCA (Directorate General of Civil Aviation)

• Ministry of Civil Aviation

• Airports Authority of India (AAI)

• Verified news channels

Final Thoughts

Operation Sindoor is a vital military exercise aimed at enhancing the country’s defense preparedness and operational agility. While the temporary airport closures may disrupt travel plans, the cooperation of travelers can play a crucial role in ensuring the success of this national security initiative.

If you’re scheduled to fly on the affected dates, the best course of action is to remain calm, stay informed, and proactively reschedule or cancel your plans. Doing so will save you stress and ensure you stay ahead of any last-minute travel complications.

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