Operation Sindoor: 32 airports closed until 15 May as airlines cancel flights amid heightened tensions
In the wake of rising tensions between India and Pakistan, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has temporarily closed 32 airports across northern and western India to civil flight operations as part of Operation Sindoor. The closure, which began on 9 May, will continue until 05:29 hours IST on 15 May 2025, as per the latest Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) issued by the Airports Authority of India.
Which airports are closed?
The impacted airports include major hubs such as Chandigarh, Srinagar, Amritsar, Jammu, Leh, and Jodhpur, as well as several smaller but strategically significant locations like Pathankot, Bhuj, and Bikaner. This large-scale closure is aimed at ensuring operational readiness and safety amidst ongoing national security concerns.
Airlines respond to extensive flight cancellations
Airlines have responded with extensive flight cancellations. Air India announced that its flights to and from affected cities including Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Amritsar, and Bhuj would remain suspended through the morning of 15 May. A spokesperson confirmed that passengers holding valid bookings during this period would be eligible for a full refund or a one-time waiver on rescheduling.
IndiGo
Similarly, IndiGo shared a list of suspended services covering Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, and more, while SpiceJet has halted flights to Leh, Dharamshala, and other destinations. Passengers have been advised to check flight status prior to travelling and contact airline helplines for rebooking or refund options.
Air India Express
Air India Express, although operating a limited set of routes, has also suspended operations to airports like Amritsar and Jammu until 10 May, with full refunds available and special waivers in place for defence personnel.
Tight security checks
In addition to flight disruptions, passengers across all Indian airports are facing tighter security checks. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has implemented new measures, including mandatory Secondary Ladder Point Checks (SLPC) and a temporary ban on visitor access to terminal buildings. Airlines such as Akasa Air, Air India, and SpiceJet have issued advisories requesting travellers to arrive at least three hours before their scheduled departures.
Delhi and Mumbai airports continue to operate
Despite the closures, airports such as Delhi and Mumbai continue to operate, although delays and cancellations are occurring due to enhanced protocols. Delhi alone reported over 130 flight cancellations on Friday. Travellers are encouraged to stay updated through airline websites and helplines as the situation develops.
List of the following airports that are shut because of the India Vs Pakistan war tension:
Adhampur
Ambala
Amritsar
Awantipur
Bathinda
Bhuj
Bikaner
Chandigarh
Halwara
Hindon
Jaisalmer
Jammu
Jamnagar
Jodhpur
Kandla
Kangra (Gaggal)
Keshod
Kishangarh
Kullu Manali (Bhuntar)
Leh
Ludhiana
Mundra
Naliya
Pathankot
Patiala
Porbandar
Rajkot (Hirasar)
Sarsawa
Shimla
Srinagar
Thoise
Uttarlai
Try Our AI Features
Explore what Daily8 AI can do for you:
Comments
No comments yet...
Related Articles
Time of India
2 hours ago
- Time of India
Philippines now visa-free for Indian tourists
Philippines now visa-free for Indian tourists NEW DELHI: Philippines has joined the increasing ranks of countries that have become visa-free for Indian tourists from Sunday. Post-Covid, several places have gone either visa-free or visa-on-arrival to attract the high-spending desi tourists. These include Thailand, Malaysia, Maldives, Nepal, Sri Lanka (free electronic visa), Seychelles, Maldives, Philippines, Indonesia (visa on arrival) and Hong Kong (online pre-clearance required), according to Travel Agents Federation of India VP Anil Kalsi. 'Indian nationals may enter the Philippines without a visa for a non-extendible and non-convertible period of 14 days for tourism purposes, upon presenting a passport valid for at least six months beyond the contemplated stay, confirmed hotel accommodation/ booking, proof of financial capacity, and return or onward ticket to the next country of destination,' according to the website of the embassy of the Philippines in New Delhi. The reason for this change is also stated clearly: 'enhancing tourism arrivals from India.' 'Indian nationals holding valid and current American, Japanese, Australian, Canadian, Schengen, Singapore or United Kingdom (AJACSSUK) visas or residence permits may enter the Philippines without a visa for a non-extendible period of 30 days for tourism, upon presenting a passport valid for at least six months beyond the contemplated stay, and return or onward ticket to the next country of destination,' it adds. by Taboola by Taboola Sponsored Links Sponsored Links Promoted Links Promoted Links You May Like Don't Forget To Block Ads Before Sunday Lifestyle Tech Tips Click Here Undo These updated visa-free privileges for Indian nationals can be availed of at any Philippine port of entry, and are not convertible to a visa-based stay or other admission status categories. Indian nationals must also not have any derogatory record with the Bureau of Immigration (BI) in order to be admitted into the country without a visa. 'Indian nationals transiting in the Philippines or entering the country for long-term visits and non-tourism activities are required to apply for an appropriate Philippine visa at a Philippine Embassy or Consulate in their country or origin, place of legal residence, or any country that requires entry visas for Indian nationals. Indian nationals who are eligible for e-Visas may also apply through the official Philippine e-Visa website . The DFA reminds that e-Visas may not be extended or converted to other visa-based stay or other admission status categories,' the embassy says. India has seen a spurt in outbound travel post-Covid by its nationals, while foreign tourist arrivals (FTAs) to the country are yet to return to 2019 levels. In 2024, India is provisionally estimated to have received about 97 lakh FTAs, about 1.4% more than the previous year. India had crossed the 1-crore FTA mark for the first time in 2017 and had peaked at 1.1 crore in 2019. On the other hand, more Indians are travelling to foreign shores than they did in pre-Covid times. Barring the West, other countries — especially in Southeast Asia — are going all out to woo the high-spending desi globetrotters by majorly simplifying visas to boost their economies. The travel industry in India is requesting Govt to take steps to help boost inbound numbers that will create much-needed jobs and earn forex.
India.com
3 hours ago
- India.com
5 Best Hill Stations Near Kolkata For A Refreshing Summer Getaway
The cultural hub of India known as Kolkata maintains a reputation for both bright cultural heritage and lengthy hot seasons. Summer temperatures push people toward nearby hill stations since these destinations provide relief from hot weather conditions. The hill destinations combine their beautiful natural setting of mountains and peaceful landscapes with pleasant temperatures along with active activities and recreational treatments. This article examines the most favorable hill destinations that surround Kolkata which serve as perfect summer getaways. 1. Darjeeling: The Queen of Hills Darjeeling stands as an Indian hill station landmark which is approximately 520 kilometers from Kolkata. Situated in the western part of the Himalayas at an elevation of 2053 meters above sea level this town claims its position as the 'Queen of Hills'. Darjeeling gains fame from tea plantation areas together with colonial buildings and the UNESCO World Heritage-status toy train known as Darjeeling Himalayan Railway. Visitors engage in activities such as trekking plus river rafting or they visit spiritual sites including Ghum Monastery and Bhutia Busty Gompa. The area delivers both a pleasant atmospheric environment alongside captivating natural landscape that functions as an ideally refreshing spot to escape the heat of Kolkata summers. 2. Kalimpong: A Serene Escape As its distance from Kolkata reaches 550 kilometers Kalimpong stands as another brilliant attraction within the Eastern Himalayas. Whose peaceful environment together with superb vistas sets Kalimpong apart from nearby tourist areas and appeals to visitors who seek relaxation. The area contains numerous flower cultivation centers together with Zang Dhok Palri Phodang monastery and educational institutions built by Christian missionaries. Tourists who love nature should check out Neora Valley National Park in addition to exploring Pine View Nursery. Kalimpong offers visitors relief from the bustling city life because of its tolerable summer weather and lush natural landscapes. 3. Mirik: A Picturesque Lake Town Mirik stands as a little but enchanting hill station which embraces the landscape of orange orchards and cardamom plantations and dense forests at approximately 550 kilometers from Kolkata. Sumendu Lake serves as the main attraction in Mirik because people can ride boats while they gaze upon the beautiful mountain landscapes. Bokar Monastery stands alongside the Tibetan Buddhist center as main attractions in addition to the active local market that sells handmade crafts and souvenirs. The station's position at a lower elevation provides pleasant climatic conditions during summer thus attracting many families as well as couples. 4. Gangtok: Gateway to Sikkim The small city of Gangtok exists in Sikkim although tourists can easily reach it by road or air travel from Kolkata which needs a journey of 600 kilometers. The capital city of Sikkim Gangtok presents visitors with colorful cultural hotspots and magnificent scenery and important spiritual sites. Visitors should explore the popular attractions of Rumtek Monastery combined with Tsomgo Lake and Nathula Pass which requires proper authorization. The site attracts thrill-seekers who love paragliding along with trekking and taking yak rides as their activities. Gangtok provides an ideal getaway for Kolkata residents because it offers pleasant summers coupled with stunning natural landscapes. 5. Lava and Loleygaon: Offbeat Treasures The townships of Lava and Loleygaon function as truly unconventional mountain towns that exist near Kalimpong. These elevated locations provide visitors with clean forests and opportunities to spot rare wildlife together with breathtaking views of snow-covered summits. Lava protects the famous Neora Valley National Park which hosts both endangered red pandas and clouded leopards together with numerous other endangered species. The main attraction of Loleygaon is its canopy walk alongside its popular Rock Garden. These peaceful places offer visitors cancellation from the busy tourist areas. Final Words The Eastern Himalayan proximity of Kolkata enables its local residents to book simple trips to these attractive hill stations with ease. Every hill station profiled here provides distinct attractions that can fulfill any traveler's desires including adventure experiences, spiritual encounters or relaxing relaxation. The combination of lively Darjeeling charm with the untainted locations in Lava and Loleygaon provides visitors with remarkable mountain experiences surrounded by natural beauty. Take this chance to visit these refreshing retreats during summer since they provide both restful tranquility and exciting experiences just near Kolkata.
News18
4 hours ago
- News18
Luxury Honeymoon Hotspots Under A 7-Hour Flight from India
Last Updated: From serene coastlines to majestic mountains and vibrant cities, these glamorous hideaways promise unforgettable moments of love and luxury Embarking on a honeymoon is a cherished milestone, and it deserves more than just a postcard-perfect destination. It should be one of the most memorable experiences of your life—full of luxury, intimacy, and excitement. If you're dreaming of romantic adventures without the fatigue of long-haul travel, several opulent destinations lie within a 7-hour flight radius from India. These honeymoon hotspots offer a blend of enchanting ambiance, cultural richness, and indulgent experiences. Ankush Nischal, Founder, TravGreen, a Sustainable Luxury Travel Company share honeymoon spots hotspots: 1. Maldives Flight time: ~4 hours Visa: On arrival for Indian passport holders The Maldives is the epitome of honeymoon luxury. Think private overwater villas, couple's spa treatments, and underwater dining. Resorts like Kudadoo and Joali Being offer all-inclusive packages with a highly personalized touch, perfect for creating unforgettable moments. With its turquoise waters and pristine white sands, this island nation in the Indian Ocean is an idyllic, laid-back escape. 2. Mauritius Flight time: ~6 hours Visa: Free visa on arrival for 60 days Mauritius enchants with its lush green landscapes and crystal-clear beaches. At Shangri-La Le Touessrok, you can enjoy the exclusivity of a private island and beachfront suites. Explore natural wonders like the Seven-Coloured Earth and Grand Bassin (Ganga Talao), indulge in romantic beach dinners, or try your hand at water sports and nature walks. This destination offers the perfect mix of relaxation and adventure. 3. Kenya Visa: E-visa required for Indian passport holders For couples who crave a blend of romance and wilderness, Kenya delivers. Picture candlelit dinners under the vast African sky, wine on your private deck overlooking the savannah, or thrilling safaris to spot the Big Five. Luxurious lodges in Masai Mara and experiences at Lake Naivasha or Diani Beach make Kenya a truly unique and unforgettable honeymoon destination. 4. Almaty (Kazakhstan) Flight time: ~4 hours Nestled against the snow-capped Tien Shan Mountains, Almaty is an offbeat gem. Couples can take scenic cable car rides up Kok-Tobe Hill, visit the stunning Big Almaty Lake, or unwind in world-class spas and cozy mountain resorts. Offering a unique blend of Central Asian charm and urban sophistication, Almaty is perfect for couples seeking both adventure and luxury. 5. Singapore Flight time: ~4.5 hours Visa: Tourist visa required (valid for 2 years; stay up to 30 days) Singapore is a cosmopolitan city-state that dazzles with its modern appeal and romantic charm. Visit iconic attractions like Gardens by the Bay, Sentosa Island, and the Marina Bay Sands SkyPark. Whether you're savoring fine cuisine, enjoying the night zoo, or soaking in the city's skyline, Singapore offers luxury, style, and memorable experiences in a compact, accessible setting. 6. Seychelles Flight time: ~4.5 hours Seychelles is a honeymooner's paradise where romance meets raw natural beauty. Think private beachside stays, vibrant coral reefs, and serene sunsets. With luxurious resorts offering complete seclusion, couples can truly unplug and reconnect. The stunning biodiversity, lush landscapes, and pristine beaches make Seychelles a destination to treasure forever. 7. Bali (Indonesia) Flight time: ~6.5 hours Bali remains a dream destination for many couples. From floating breakfasts in your private villa in Ubud to golden-hour beach walks in Seminyak and temple-hopping in Uluwatu, Bali is steeped in romance. Add to that its spiritual charm, rich culture, lush rice terraces, and luxe spa experiences, and you have the perfect setting for an unforgettable honeymoon. From serene coastlines to majestic mountains and vibrant cities, these glamorous hideaways promise unforgettable moments of love and luxury. So pack your bags, bring your passports—and your love story. Your dream honeymoon is just a few hours away. About the Author Swati Chaturvedi Swati Chaturvedi, a seasoned media and journalism aficionado with over 10 years of expertise, is not just a storyteller; she's a weaver of wit and wisdom in the digital landscape. As a key figure in News18 More The News18 Lifestyle section brings you the latest on health, fashion, travel, food, and culture — with wellness tips, celebrity style, travel inspiration, and recipes. Also Download the News18 App to stay updated! First Published:
