India shut down 24 airports across the country on Thursday after Pakistan launched fresh missile and drone attacks on Indian territory.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation confirmed that these airports were closed for civil flight operations as a precaution. The attacks targeted areas in Jammu, Punjab, Gujarat, and Rajasthan. Indian air defence systems intercepted several missiles and drones. The Defence Ministry confirmed they were launched from Pakistan.
Air raid sirens went off in several cities. Blackouts were reported. An IPL match in Dharamshala was suspended.
The list of closed airports includes:
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Chandigarh
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Srinagar
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Amritsar
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Ludhiana
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Bhuntar
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Kishengarh
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Patiala
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Shimla
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Kangra-Gaggal
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Bathinda
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Jaisalmer
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Jodhpur
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Bikaner
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Halwara
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Pathankot
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Jammu
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Leh
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Mundra
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Jamnagar
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Hirasa (Rajkot)
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Porbandar
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Keshod
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Kandla
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Bhuj
The escalation followed India’s military operation—Operation Sindoor—conducted a day earlier. That operation targeted terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. It was launched in response to the April 22 terrorist attack in Pahalgam.
Several airlines canceled flights and issued advisories. IndiGo canceled 165 flights. Air India and Air India Express also canceled multiple flights. Two Air India international flights from Amritsar were diverted to New Delhi.
Airlines have asked passengers to arrive early due to increased security checks.
“We request you to allow some extra time for your journey,” IndiGo posted on X. SpiceJet and Akasa Air issued similar advisories, asking passengers to reach the airport at least three hours before departure.
CISF personnel held mock drills at major airports, including Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, to prepare for any further escalation.
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