IndiGo and Air India have cancelled flight services to various cities in northern and western India for May 13, citing precautionary airspace restrictions and increased security protocols due to rising tensions between India and Pakistan.
IndiGo has cancelled all flights to and from Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, and Rajkot until 11:59 pm on Saturday.
In a statement, the airline said, “We understand how this may disrupt your travel plans, and regret the inconvenience caused. Our teams are actively monitoring the situation and will promptly keep you informed of further updates.”
Air India has also declared the suspension of round-trip flights to and from Jammu, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot.
On Monday evening, an IndiGo flight heading to Amritsar turned back to Delhi due to precautionary blackout protocols implemented in Amritsar, according to the news agency PTI.
Measures taken after drones spotted in Samba, Akhnoor, Jaisalmer, and Kathua
The airlines took these measures following reports of drones being seen in Samba, Akhnoor, Jaisalmer, and Kathua. The Indian Army stated on Tuesday that no new drone activity has been observed and that the ceasefire is still in place, as noted by the news agency ANI.
Despite the Airports Authority of India (AAI) reopening these airports on Monday, the airlines have opted to act cautiously.
Air India assured travelers that it is getting ready to resume operations.
“Following a notification from aviation authorities on the reopening of airports, Air India is working towards progressively commencing flights to and from Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh and Rajkot. We appreciate your understanding at this time as our teams work on bringing operations at these airports back to normal. Please stay tuned for further updates,” the airline posted.
Nonetheless, Indian air defense systems intercepted Pakistani drones in the Samba region, where flashes and blasts were seen in the night sky. Military sources verified that a limited number of drones had infiltrated the area and were currently under engagement. They, however, stated that there is no cause for concern.
