In a significant development indicating a potential de-escalation of tensions between India and Pakistan, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has announced the reopening of 32 airports across northern and western India for civilian operations. This decision comes following a temporary shutdown that was implemented due to heightened security concerns arising from a recent military standoff between the two nations.
Among the airports reopening are vital hubs such as Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, and Jodhpur, which had been temporarily closed since May 8, 2025. The closures were initiated in response to “Operation Sindoor,” a targeted military campaign launched by India aimed at neutralizing terror infrastructure in both Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK).
These drastic measures were prompted by a deadly terrorist attack that occurred in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, on April 26, resulting in the tragic death of 26 civilians, primarily tourists. In retaliation, India executed a series of precision air and missile strikes, one of which directly targeted Pakistan’s Nur Khan Air Base near Islamabad—an installation pivotal to the country’s military and nuclear command framework. The significance of this strike drew widespread global attention, particularly after NASA’s FIRMS satellite reportedly detected notable thermal anomalies at the site.
During the period of airspace restrictions, over 430 domestic and international flights were either canceled or diverted, leading to massive disruption in civilian air travel. Initially, AAI had extended the airspace lockdown until May 15, citing ongoing military risks; however, today’s decision to reopen the airports reflects an improvement in the situation.
The reopening of these airports follows a ceasefire agreement that was reportedly brokered with diplomatic efforts from the United States and other international actors on May 1, 2025. In a press release issued at 12:13 PM IST, AAI urged passengers to contact airlines for the latest flight information and to regularly check the AAI website for updates.
Despite this positive step toward restoring civil aviation activities, tensions between India and Pakistan remain palpable. Unverified reports have surfaced regarding radiation concerns at the damaged Nur Khan Air Base, although no official confirmation has yet been provided. The enduring disputes surrounding Pakistan-occupied Kashmir and the general Kashmir conflict continue to pose strategic challenges for both countries, as well as for the broader international community.
While the resumption of air travel is being cautiously interpreted as a move towards normalization, security analysts caution that the ceasefire remains fragile and could easily deteriorate without substantial diplomatic engagement and resolution of underlying issues. For any further inquiries, AAI has directed the public to its Corporate Communication Department at 011-20818228, referencing Press Release No. 3/2025-26.
