24 Indian Airports Shut Amid Pakistan Missile Attacks: Full List
India has temporarily closed 24 airports due to missile threats from Pakistan, following escalating cross-border tensions.
Key Highlights:
Pakistan missile attacks have prompted India to shut down operations at 24 airports across the northern and western regions. The closures come as a precautionary measure following cross-border missile and drone strikes, significantly escalating tensions between the two countries.
Why Are Airports Closed?
The airport closures are part of an emergency security protocol triggered by Pakistan’s missile attacks on Indian territory. The Indian government has prioritized safeguarding critical infrastructure and civilian lives amid the ongoing conflict.
Full List of Affected Airports
Jammu and Kashmir
- Srinagar
- Jammu
Ladakh
- Leh
Punjab
- Amritsar
- Ludhiana
- Patiala
- Bathinda
- Halwara
- Pathankot
Himachal Pradesh
- Bhuntar
- Shimla
- Kangra (Gaggal)
Chandigarh (Union Territory)
- Chandigarh
Rajasthan
- Kishangarh
- Jaisalmer
- Jodhpur
- Bikaner
Gujarat
- Mundra
- Jamnagar
- Hirasar
- Porbandar
- Keshod
- Kandla
- Bhuj
These closures have led to significant disruptions in air travel, with multiple flights canceled or rerouted. Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for updates.
Background: Operation Sindoor and Escalation
The airport shutdowns follow India’s military offensive known as “Operation Sindoor,” launched on May 7, 2025. This operation targeted nine terror sites within Pakistan and Pakistan-administered Kashmir, including areas like Bahawalpur and Muridke. The operation was in retaliation for the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack, which killed 26 Indian tourists.
In response to Operation Sindoor, Pakistan has reportedly carried out missile and drone strikes targeting multiple Indian cities and military installations. The Indian Air Force’s advanced air defense systems, including the S-400 Sudarshan Chakra, were deployed to intercept these threats.
Civilian Impact and Travel Disruptions
The abrupt closure of these airports has caused a major disruption in domestic and international air travel. Key affected areas include Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, Gujarat, Rajasthan, and Himachal Pradesh, where civilian flights have been grounded until further notice.
The Indian Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has advised passengers to regularly monitor flight schedules and updates from their airlines. Airlines operating in the affected regions have also issued travel advisories, urging passengers to plan their journeys accordingly.
Military and Civilian Response
In addition to the airport shutdowns, Indian security forces have heightened their alert levels in the affected regions. Military patrols and air defense readiness have been intensified, especially around key defense installations.
Authorities are continuously monitoring the situation, and contingency plans are in place to resume normal operations as soon as the security situation stabilizes.
What Lies Ahead
As India continues to counter the missile and drone threats from Pakistan, security protocols will remain in place to protect both civilian and military assets. Diplomatic channels are being pursued to de-escalate the situation, but air travel disruptions are expected to persist in the short term.
The Indian government has reiterated its commitment to ensuring the safety of its citizens and maintaining the integrity of its airspace. Further updates will be issued as the situation unfolds.
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