New Delhi, May 7, 2025 – India is on high alert as the government has declared an Indian airspace emergency following the launch of Operation Sindoor, a series of precision strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-Occupied Kashmir (POK). In a swift response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack that killed 26 civilians, the Indian armed forces targeted nine key locations early Wednesday morning.
As a result, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) suspended flight operations at key northern airports, including Jammu (IXJ), Srinagar (SXR), Leh (IXL), Amritsar (ATQ), and Dharamshala (DHM). The shutdown is causing severe travel disruptions, especially for flights bound to the Middle East, with rerouted flights adding up to Rs 5 lakh in extra costs per journey.
Nationwide Disruption Amid Emergency Surveillance
Government sources confirmed that Indian airspace is being closely monitored amid the national emergency. All domestic and international carriers have been advised to pause operations or reroute accordingly. National carrier Air India has canceled all flights to and from nine cities, including Chandigarh, Rajkot, and Jodhpur, until further notice.
Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in New Delhi is also experiencing significant delays, with passengers advised to check with airlines before departing. Meanwhile, Qatar Airways has temporarily suspended all flights to Pakistan, citing the closure of Pakistani airspace.
Operation Sindoor: Surgical Strikes on Terror Infrastructure
In a detailed statement, the Indian Defence Ministry said the operation specifically targeted terror infrastructure in Bahawalpur and other regions in POK. “No Pakistani military facilities have been targeted. India has demonstrated considerable restraint,” the statement read.
Officials emphasized the need for strong deterrence following intelligence that these camps were directly involved in planning attacks against India. “This is a national emergency. The safety of our passengers and airspace sovereignty is paramount,” a source told India Today.
International Fallout and Civilian Safety
Two international flights heading to Amritsar have been diverted to Delhi, and no civil flights will be allowed from Srinagar Airport today. Meanwhile, Middle Eastern carriers are reassessing route safety as the airspace conflict escalates.
Qatar Airways, in a statement, urged affected passengers to follow live updates via their official website or contact support at +974 4144 5555. They assured that “the safety of passengers and crew remains our top priority.”
Looking Ahead
As tensions rise, updates from the Indian government, DGCA, and military command are expected throughout the day. Travelers and residents in affected areas are advised to remain alert and follow verified channels for guidance. The Indian Airspace Emergency is likely to remain in effect until the strategic objectives of Operation Sindoor are met.
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