India Pakistan Tensions May 2025: 24 Airports Closed Till May 14 After Drone Attack

In the wake of intensifying India-Pakistan tensions May 2025, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has extended the closure of 24 airports across northern and western India until May 14. The decision follows a major security breach late Thursday night when Pakistan launched a swarm of 300–400 Turkish-made drones targeting Indian territory.

The aerial assault, confirmed by India’s Ministry of Defence, sparked widespread alarm and triggered emergency protocols across key border regions. Indian air defence systems responded swiftly, neutralizing most of the incoming threats. Despite the rapid countermeasures, the attack left behind a trail of physical damage and emotional shock, especially in areas like Jammu, Poonch, and Amritsar.

Which Airports Will Remain Shut?

To ensure national security and public safety, the government has ordered the temporary closure of the following 24 airports:

1. Chandigarh

2. Srinagar

3. Amritsar

4. Ludhiana

5. Bhuntar

6. Kishengarh

7. Patiala

8. Shimla

9. Kangra-Gaggal

10. Bathinda

11. Jaisalmer

12. Jodhpur

13. Bikaner

14. Halwara

15. Pathankot

16. Jammu

17. Leh

18. Mundra

19. Jamnagar

20. Hirasar

21. Porbandar

22. Keshod

23. Kandla

24. Bhuj

These airports, mostly located in Jammu & Kashmir, Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat, will stay closed until further notice or until May 14, depending on the security situation.

Widespread Impact and Security Protocols

The fallout from the drone incursion has been significant. In Jammu and Kashmir’s Poonch district, visual evidence showed a temple, mosque, and gurudwara bearing damage. One house was razed, and another had to be torn down by authorities as a safety measure.

Air raid sirens blared across several cities, and a high-stakes IPL match in Dharamshala was suspended mid-play — a decision that underscored the gravity of the unfolding security crisis.

In response, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has instructed all airports nationwide to enhance vigilance. Measures include:

• Mandatory Secondary Ladder Point Checks (SLPC) for all passengers

• Ban on visitor entry into terminal buildings

• Heightened surveillance at terminal access points

Travel Disruptions: What Flyers Should Know

Airlines have begun issuing travel advisories and policy updates to assist affected passengers.

IndiGo, for instance, has waived change and cancellation fees for bookings made on or before May 8, 2025. This waiver applies to flights involving affected destinations such as Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, Bikaner, Jodhpur, and others, until May 22.

Air India has urged passengers to arrive at least three hours prior to departure due to extended security screening procedures.

India-Pakistan Tensions May 2025: A Geopolitical Flashpoint

The late-night attack is being seen as a significant escalation in the already fraught India-Pakistan tensions May 2025. Diplomatic backchannels are reportedly active, but officials have maintained a tight-lipped stance on whether retaliatory actions are being considered.

National Security Advisor Ajit Doval held emergency meetings through the night, while Defence Minister Rajnath Singh conducted a high-level review with the armed forces on operational readiness along the western front.

Citizens are urged to remain calm but vigilant. Authorities continue to monitor developments, and further updates are expected from the Ministry of Home Affairs later this week.

Also Read : India Pakistan Tensions May 2025: 24 Airports Closed Till May 14 After Drone Attack