Amid rising military tensions between India and Pakistan, major airlines like Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet have advised passengers to arrive at airports at least three hours before departure due to tightened security. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has implemented stricter protocols, including a ban on terminal visitor entry and the reintroduction of Secondary Ladder Point Checking (SLPC) for hand luggage and passengers before boarding.
The advisory follows Pakistan’s attempted aerial strike targeting Indian military sites, which was intercepted by India’s defense systems. The incident triggered emergency protocols across Jammu and Kashmir, Punjab, and Rajasthan. In response, India launched Operation Sindoor, targeting suspected terrorist camps, escalating tensions further.
Flight operations have been severely impacted, with over 430 flights cancelled on Thursday and 27 airports shut until May 10. On Wednesday, 300 flights were grounded, marking one of the biggest disruptions to Indian air travel in recent years.
Foreign Secretary Vikram Misri emphasized that India’s actions were targeted and restrained. As the situation unfolds, passengers are urged to monitor airline updates, allow extra time for airport procedures, and prepare for continued disruptions amid ongoing security concerns.
