Tensions between India and Pakistan have led to significant disruptions in air travel, with India closing major airports and flight routes. This has forced international carriers like United and American Airlines to cancel flights to Delhi. Affected travelers are urged to check with airlines for the latest updates, while the aviation industry works to minimize disruptions. The airspace conflict follows a military operation by India, which has further strained relations between the two countries.
Airport and Flight Cancellations Across India
India has shut down 27 major airports in the north, west, and central regions due to escalating tensions with Pakistan. This includes key airports in cities like Chandigarh, Srinagar, Amritsar, Jaisalmer, Jammu, and Leh. These closures, which will last until at least Friday, May 9, have disrupted both domestic and international air traffic.
In addition to airport closures, India has also restricted approximately 25 flight routes that allow planes to enter Pakistan’s airspace from India. As a result, foreign airlines flying to Pakistan will now have to take longer detours, further complicating international travel in the region.
Flight Cancellations and Airline Responses
On Wednesday, both United Airlines and American Airlines canceled their flights to Delhi due to the ongoing airspace crisis. United Airlines released a statement saying they would continue to monitor the situation and adjust their flight schedules based on new developments.
Travel advisories were issued throughout the day, urging passengers to stay informed. Online travel agencies like EaseMyTrip and Yatra recommended that travelers confirm their flight statuses with airlines before heading to the airport. Ixigo also provided guidance, directing passengers to contact customer service for assistance with cancellations, refunds, or rescheduling.
At 7:00 pm IST, Delhi Airport released a statement confirming that airport operations were continuing normally across terminals and runways. However, it acknowledged that some flights had been impacted due to the changing airspace conditions. Passengers were advised to stay in touch with airlines for updates.
Mumbai Airport also issued a similar statement earlier, warning that airspace restrictions and airport closures across the country might affect flight operations.
Stranded Travelers in Ladakh Receive Free Stays
The ongoing travel disruptions have led to stranded passengers, particularly in Ladakh, where the Ladakh Hotel and Guest House Association announced free stays for affected travelers. Rigzin Wangmo Lachic, the association’s president, confirmed that travelers whose flights had been canceled due to the airspace issue would receive complimentary accommodation at the same hotels where they had been staying in Ladakh.
Background on India-Pakistan Tensions
The current airspace crisis follows a military operation launched by India in the early hours of Wednesday, which targeted terrorist camps in Pakistani-controlled territory. India stated that the strikes were in retaliation for a recent terrorist attack in Pahalgam that killed 26 civilians.
By the end of Wednesday, over 300 flights had been canceled across the country. IndiGo, India’s largest airline, confirmed the cancellation of 165 flights, while other carriers such as Air India, SpiceJet, Akasa Air, Star Air, and Air India Express also suspended operations to and from the affected cities.
Impact on Airlines and International Travel
The ongoing disruptions are costing airlines significant amounts of money, with flights taking longer detours due to closed airspace. According to an earlier report from Skift, these disruptions have led to increased fuel costs as flight schedules and durations are adjusted. A flight delayed in Europe could further delay subsequent flights in India, compounding the financial impact.
Air India has stated that the airspace restrictions could result in a loss of approximately $600 million if Pakistan keeps its airspace closed for a prolonged period.
Pakistan’s Airspace Closure and Its Effects
This latest round of airspace restrictions follows Pakistan’s decision two weeks ago to close its airspace to all Indian carriers. This move has made it more challenging for airlines flying from India to reach destinations in Europe, North America, and Central Asia. The extended closure of Pakistan’s airspace is complicating international travel in the region and causing disruptions for travelers worldwide.
The Bigger Picture: Economic and Tourism Impact
The ongoing airspace dispute highlights the broader economic implications for the aviation industry. Airlines are now faced with longer travel times and higher operational costs, which could potentially lead to increased ticket prices for passengers. Furthermore, these disruptions are damaging the tourism industry, particularly in areas like Ladakh, where tourists rely heavily on air travel for access to remote destinations.
What Travelers Should Do
For passengers affected by flight cancellations, it is crucial to stay informed. Airlines are working to minimize disruptions, and passengers should check their flight status regularly. Travelers who have been stranded are advised to contact customer service for help with rebooking or getting a refund.
As the situation continues to evolve, travelers are encouraged to follow updates from airlines and airport authorities. The Indian government has pledged to work closely with airlines and Air Traffic Control to resolve the crisis and resume normal flight operations as soon as possible.
