Operation Sindoor : Northern India Airports Close Amid India-Pakistan Airstrikes

New Delhi: A series of missile strikes by Indian forces targeting terrorist infrastructure in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir has led to the temporary closure of several airports in northern and northwestern India, disrupting flight operations across the region. The military operation, dubbed ‘Operation Sindoor,’ was launched in response to a deadly terror attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives two weeks ago.

Airlines such as IndiGo and SpiceJet have confirmed cancellations and delays, citing the volatile situation and airspace restrictions. Affected airports include Amritsar (ATQ), Dharamshala (DHM), Jammu (IXJ), Leh (IXL), and Srinagar (SXR), with closures in place until further notice. IndiGo issued a statement on X, advising passengers to check flight statuses before heading to airports in Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, and Dharamshala due to the ongoing disruptions.

The Indian armed forces conducted precise strikes on nine terror-related sites early Wednesday, marking the first joint operation involving the Army, Navy, and Air Force since the 1971 war. The military emphasized that no Pakistani military facilities were targeted, focusing solely on terrorist infrastructure linked to attacks against India.

Pakistan confirmed the strikes hit three locations Muzaffarabad, Kotli, and the Ahmed East area of Bahawalpur prompting a forceful response, including the downing of several Indian jets. Pakistani officials reported eight deaths, including a child, and numerous injuries. Tensions between the nuclear-armed neighbors have escalated, with both nations imposing airspace bans on each other’s airlines until May 23.

The closures and flight disruptions follow a reciprocal airspace blockade, with Pakistan barring Indian carriers six days earlier, after the Pahalgam attack. India’s Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) now prohibits Pakistani-registered or operated aircraft from its airspace, further complicating regional air travel. Jammu and Kashmir remains on high alert, with flight services to and from the region severely impacted.

Travelers are urged to monitor airline updates and official announcements as the situation develops.