In a step that has excited national fervor and fear, Operation Sindoor, the Indian Armed Forces’ military operation, is more than just news. It is grounding flights, rescheduling travel, and bringing temporary airport shut-downs in northern and western India.
After the Pahalgam terror attack that claimed 26 innocent civilians’ lives, India reacted fast and true. The spillover effect of this military intervention has resulted in mass flight cancellations, and thousands of passengers are stranded or trying to reschedule bookings. Everything you need to know about Operation Sindoor, its spillover impact on civilian air travel, and how India’s top airlines are rising to the challenge at this time of national sensitivity.
What is Operation Sindoor?
Operation Sindoor began at the crack of dawn on May 7, 2025, as India’s rapid and measured response to a horrific terror attack. Precision strikes were launched by the Indian Air Force on nine terror camps in Pakistan and PoK through Mirage and Su-30 fighter jets.
This is not another military invasion. It’s a firm message—a firm deterrent—to those threatening the peace of India. The name Sindoor, generally being one of divine protection and eternal commitment, says it all about the mission: safeguarding India’s sovereignty and its people.
Airspace Restrictions: A Necessary Disruption
Shortly after the strikes, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) imposed temporary airspace restrictions in regions near the Line of Control (LoC). Several airports in Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and neighboring areas were either closed or saw limited operations.
These restrictions, which are in place until 5:29 AM IST on May 10, are part of a broader security protocol. While essential from a defense standpoint, they have caused massive inconvenience during the peak of the summer travel season.
Air India Cancels Flights to 9 Airports
India’s national carrier, Air India, was one of the first to respond. The airline has cancelled all flights to and from the following airports:
- Srinagar
- Jammu
- Leh
- Amritsar
- Jodhpur
- Bhuj
- Jamnagar
- Chandigarh
- Rajkot
To ease the inconvenience, Air India has offered full refunds or free rescheduling for affected passengers—a much-needed gesture of compassion in these tense times.
IndiGo Grounds Flights at 10 Airports
IndiGo, India’s largest airline by market share, also suspended operations to and from ten critical airports:
- Srinagar
- Jammu
- Leh
- Amritsar
- Chandigarh
- Dharamshala
- Bikaner
- Jodhpur
- Gwalior
- Kishangarh
The airline issued public advisories via its website and social platforms, ensuring real-time updates and seamless rebooking/refund options for passengers.
SpiceJet Suspends Flights at Six Airports
SpiceJet took similar action, suspending flights on May 7 at the following locations:
- Leh
- Srinagar
- Jammu
- Kangra
- Kandla
- Amritsar
Acknowledging the sensitivity of the situation, SpiceJet has promised either a full refund or alternate flights—wherever seat availability allows.
Akasa Air Halts Srinagar Operations
India’s youngest airline, Akasa Air, has temporarily stopped all services to Srinagar. In a public statement, the airline affirmed its priority on passenger safety, ensuring those impacted can opt for rescheduling or full refunds with minimal hassle.
Why Were These Airports Affected?
Most of the affected airports are located in border or high-alert regions, including Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and Gujarat. These zones are critical for defense surveillance, and with increased military air traffic, civil aviation had to be restricted.
This isn’t merely about operational logistics. It’s about airspace control in volatile times—ensuring that our defense forces have the freedom to maneuver and respond without civilian interference.
Passenger Emotions: Frustration Meets Patriotic Understanding
Social media has been flooded with mixed reactions. While some travelers expressed frustration over cancelled vacations and delayed business plans, many others have shown solidarity, understanding that national security takes precedence.
Comments praising the airlines for timely updates, waivers, and support are a testament to how well the aviation sector is managing this challenge.
“Cancelled plans can be rescheduled. Lives cannot. Proud of our Air Force. Salute.” – A user wrote on X (formerly Twitter)
A Bigger Picture: Strategic and Symbolic
Operation Sindoor isn’t just about neutralizing threats. It marks a shift in India’s counter-terrorism strategy, signaling a more proactive and assertive stance. Defense analysts suggest that such preemptive actions are likely to redefine India’s long-term security framework.
The choice of the name Sindoor is particularly telling—it evokes a powerful image of protection, sacrifice, and duty—a subtle but profound reminder of India’s commitment to its people.
What Happens Next?
As of now, flight restrictions remain in place till May 10, though authorities may revise this based on evolving intelligence. Travelers are urged to:
- Regularly check airline websites and apps
- Avoid unnecessary travel to affected regions
- Stay in contact with airline customer support for latest advisories
The situation is fluid, but airlines and defense authorities are working in close coordination to resume normalcy as soon as it’s safe.
Final Thoughts: A Nation in Sync During Testing Times
Operation Sindoor has underlined a truth that is often overlooked in times of peace—national security is a collective responsibility. While the Air Force soars into danger to protect our skies, civil authorities and airlines have shown agility and compassion on the ground.
The disruption is real, but so is the unity. Whether it’s Air India’s refund policies, IndiGo’s seamless communication, SpiceJet’s operational agility, or Akasa’s prompt responsiveness—India’s aviation sector has stepped up.
Let’s remember: these short-term inconveniences are part of a larger commitment—to safety, to strength, to sovereignty. As the nation watches and waits, one thing is clear: the skies may be restricted, but the spirit of India soars higher than ever.
