India-Pak Tensions: Delhi, Mumbai airport operations normal, but flyers warned of delays amid heightened security

Indo-Pak Tensions: The Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) on Sunday said that operations at the Indira Gandhi International Airport remain normal, but warned that some flights may face disruptions due to ongoing airspace restrictions and intensified security protocols.

Flyers are likely to experience longer wait times at security checkpoints as the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has enforced stricter screening procedures.

DIAL has urged all passengers to arrive well ahead of their scheduled flight times to account for potential delays during the security process. “Flyers are requested to rely solely on official sources for accurate information and avoid sharing unverified content on social media,” the airport operator said in a post on X.

Enhanced security arrangements, initially introduced due to the recent escalation in tensions between India and Pakistan, continue to remain in effect as a precaution. This comes despite a ceasefire understanding reached on Saturday following a call between military officials from both countries. However, uncertainty persists as Islamabad reportedly breached the ceasefire shortly after the announcement.

Prime Minister Narendra Modi chaired a high-level meeting with the three service chiefs and the Chief of Defence Staff on Sunday to assess the situation.

Airlines issue advisories, reschedule flights

Flag carrier Air India advised passengers across the country to reach their respective airports at least three hours before departure. “Check-in counIndia-Pakistan tensions, Delhi airport security alert, Delhi, Mumbai airport operations normal, Delhi airport advisory, Mumbai airport advisory, airport delays India, airspace restrictions ters will close 75 minutes before scheduled departure,” it said, citing BCAS instructions.

Low-cost carriers IndiGo, SpiceJet and Akasa Air have also issued similar advisories.

Mumbai airport issues alert; CISF presence intensified

Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport also issued an alert, advising travellers to arrive well in advance due to intensified security checks. Flyers have been reminded to carry government-issued photo identification and keep travel documents—such as passports, visas, and boarding passes—ready for inspection.

Passengers have been advised to pack light, comply with security guidelines, and avoid carrying prohibited items. Liquids in carry-on bags should be limited to 100ml containers stored in a clear zip-lock pouch. Laptops and electronic devices must be removed and placed separately in trays during screening. Unattended baggage will be treated as suspicious and may trigger emergency protocols.

Closure of 24 airports extended till May 15

Meanwhile, the government has extended the temporary closure of 24 airports near the India-Pakistan border—including Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Jodhpur, Amritsar, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Chandigarh, and Rajkot—until 0529 hours on May 15.

Air India said its flights to and from these airports remain cancelled during this period. Affected passengers holding valid tickets will be eligible for a full refund or a one-time waiver on rescheduling charges. Other carriers have announced similar flexibility.

Airports and airlines have urged passengers to stay updated via social media, official websites, and airport display boards. Any suspicious activity or unattended items should be immediately reported to the nearest CISF officer.