India has officially reopened its airspace for commercial operations following the cancellation of Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) that had temporarily restricted access to 32 airports across the country. The move comes under the direction of the Indian Air Force (IAF) and marks the complete lifting of previous airspace curbs, paving the way for smoother air traffic movement both domestically and internationally.
In an official release, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) stated: “Attention flyers: Reference notice issued for temporary closure of 32 airports for civil aircraft operations till 05:29 hrs of 15 May 2025. It is informed that these airports are now available for civil aircraft operations with immediate effect.” The AAI also advised passengers to verify flight status directly with airlines and keep an eye on airline websites for real-time updates.
The airspace restrictions were initially implemented after the Indian Armed Forces launched Operation Sindoor on May 7, targeting nine terrorist sites in Pakistan. In retaliation, the Pakistani Army initiated heavy artillery and drone strikes along the Line of Control. Though the original closure was planned until the morning of May 11, it was later extended to 05:29 am on May 15.
The airports now cleared for operations include:
- 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
Low-cost airline IndiGo has already informed its passengers that operations will gradually resume across previously closed routes. The reopening is expected to ease congestion in the skies and restore normalcy to flight schedules across the subcontinent.
Meanwhile, in a coordinated development, the Pakistan Airports Authority (PAA) has also announced the reopening of its airspace for all types of air traffic. Following a ceasefire agreement with India, all airports in Pakistan are now fully operational. The PAA has similarly advised travelers to check with respective airlines for updated schedules.
