Chandigarh: Flight operations at Chandigarh’s Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport came to a standstill on Wednesday as authorities suspended all arrivals and departures indefinitely, citing evolving airspace restrictions linked to India’s ongoing military action, Operation Sindoor. The move follows heightened security measures near border regions and strategic airbases after Indian forces targeted terror launchpads in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir (PoK) earlier in the day.

In an official statement shared on social media platform X, the airport announced, “All flights to and from Chandigarh are temporarily suspended due to current airspace conditions. Passengers are advised to contact airlines for rescheduling or refunds. Further updates will follow.” Airport officials confirmed the cancellation of approximately 30 flights, leaving terminals unusually quiet.

Operation Sindoor: Context and Impact

The military operation, launched pre-dawn on Wednesday, marks India’s response to the April 22 terror attack in Pahalgam, South Kashmir, which claimed 26 lives. While details remain classified, defense sources indicate strikes focused on neutralizing nine terror hubs across PoK and Pakistan.

The ripple effect of the operation has disrupted air travel beyond Chandigarh. Major carriers, including IndiGo and Air India, issued advisories canceling flights to sensitive regions such as Jammu, Srinagar, Amritsar, Leh, and Jodhpur. Air India diverted two Amritsar-bound international flights to Delhi, while Air India Express suspended operations to Hindon, Jammu, and Srinagar until noon Wednesday.

Broader Airspace Closures

Aviation analysts noted a sharp decline in civilian flight activity over northern India, particularly near the western border and Rajasthan-Gujarat air corridors. These areas house critical Indian Air Force installations, prompting temporary no-fly zones to ensure operational security.

“Passenger safety remains our priority. We’re coordinating with defense authorities to resume services as soon as conditions permit,” an IndiGo spokesperson stated. Travelers at Chandigarh Airport expressed frustration but acknowledged the necessity. “It’s inconvenient, but national security comes first,” said Rajesh Kumar, a stranded passenger.

Security Tightened On Ground

Enhanced security protocols were visible at Chandigarh Airport, with rigorous checks for staff and limited access to terminals. Similar measures were reported in Jammu and Srinagar, where authorities increased vigilance at civilian airports adjacent to military zones.

As tensions persist, the Civil Aviation Authority advised passengers to monitor airline updates before heading to airports. With no immediate timeline for normalcy, the suspension underscores the delicate balance between civilian infrastructure and national security during military engagements.