8 Airports In Gujarat, Shut Amid India-Pakistan Conflict, Reopen As Ceasefire Eases Tensions

Ahmedabad: Bringing relief to air commuters, the Airports Authority of India has announced the immediate resumption of civilian flight operations at 32 airports nationwide, including eight in Gujarat. The decision follows a de-escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan. The initial suspension, enforced amid a wartime alert during Operation Sindoor, was scheduled to last until 5:29 a.m. on May 15. However, with the situation stabilizing, normal operations are gradually resuming.

In a press release issued on Monday, May 12, the Authority confirmed that passenger flights have been cleared to resume earlier than expected, following consultations with security and civil aviation agencies. Airlines such as IndiGo and Air India have begun accepting bookings, and regular flight schedules are expected to restart soon.

The temporary suspension had impacted major airports across the country, including Bhuj, Kandla, Keshod, Jamnagar, Naliya, Mundra, Hirasar (Rajkot), and Porbandar in Gujarat. These facilities were shut down on May 10 as part of a nationwide directive affecting 32 airports in response to the rising conflict.

Rajkot International Airport at Hirasar was among the hardest hit. From May 7 to 14, all 10 scheduled flights were canceled, disrupting travel plans for over 3,200 daily passengers. With no air connectivity, travelers had to rely on trains, buses, or private vehicles. The suspension affected both incoming and outgoing flights, including key routes operated by IndiGo and Air India to Mumbai, Delhi, and other major cities. Now, with clearance granted for early reopening, flight operations are set to resume progressively.