In a significant move impacting numerous travelers, major airlines Air India and IndiGo have announced the cancellation of flights to and from several cities in India, effective today, May 13th. This decision is primarily driven by rising tensions in the aftermath of recent military developments along the India-Pakistan border.
Air India’s cancellation affects flights to and from eight cities: Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot. The official statement from the airline, posted on X (formerly known as Twitter), emphasized the commitment to passenger safety during these turbulent times. They assured customers that the airline would be monitoring the situation closely and providing updates as necessary.
IndiGo has followed suit, suspending operations to Jammu, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Leh, Srinagar, and Rajkot on the same day. The airline’s advisory expressed understanding of the impact these cancellations may have on travel plans and urged passengers to confirm their flight status through their official channels.
The cancellations come in light of recent notifications regarding security protocols, as well as the Airports Authority of India (AAI) announcing temporary closures of various airports due to escalating geopolitical tensions. Notably, 32 airports across northern and western India had been shut to civil operations, with previous extensions in closures reflecting the concern for passenger safety.
However, while some airlines like Air India and IndiGo suspended services, Air India Express is gradually resuming flights from previously closed airports, beginning today. Routes such as Hindon-Bengaluru and Jammu-Delhi are among those expected to see a restoration of services, with more routes anticipated to follow suit in the coming days. This proactive approach is a positive signal for travelers who rely on these connections.
SpiceJet has also expressed plans to resume flights to key destinations soon, demonstrating that while some routes remain affected, there are efforts in place to restore air travel capabilities efficiently.
The ongoing tension has not only affected flight operations but has also heightened the alert among defense systems in India, where reports indicate an increased military presence and responses to potential threats, including having intercepted drones in certain regions.
This cloud of uncertainty surrounding air travel in India calls for travelers to stay informed. As travel plans get disrupted, airlines are making concerted efforts to communicate with customers through their platforms, encouraging them to check flight statuses and reach out for assistance as needed. It is crucial for passengers to remain vigilant and consider alternative travel plans where necessary.
In summary, the spate of flight cancellations across India reflects the serious nature of the current geopolitical landscape. Airlines are prioritizing the safety of their passengers while working towards restoring regular services as soon as it is deemed safe. Travelers are urged to keep abreast of any further announcements from airlines and regulatory bodies and plan accordingly. Safety should always come first, and in these challenging times, staying informed is key.
