Imphal's Bir Tikendrajit International Airport temporarily suspended flight operations on Monday afternoon, October 6, 2025, after a drone was spotted near the runway, causing security concerns. The incident occurred around 2 PM when an IndiGo flight arriving from Agartala reported the drone during its final descent. The unmanned aerial vehicle was observed at an altitude ranging between 3,600 and 4,000 feet.

Airport authorities immediately grounded aircraft as a precautionary safety measure. Normal operations resumed after the airport received the necessary security clearance from the state police.

According to a senior official from the Airport Authority of India (AAI), the public is strictly advised against operating drones in and around the airport vicinity, including areas in Imphal City (East and West), Nambol, and Bishnupur. The airport authority has issued a strong warning, emphasizing that unauthorized drone operations pose a serious risk to aircraft safety and may lead to temporary airport closures, causing significant inconvenience to passengers. Violators of drone operation regulations will face strict legal action in accordance with applicable laws.

Imphal West district Superintendent of Police Shivakanta Singh urged the public to report any drone activity observed between Sanjenthong and Kwakeithel to the police immediately. He stated that such activities affect flight movement.

Bir Tikendrajit International Airport, located approximately 6 km from Imphal, connects the city to Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Agartala, and other Indian cities. Airport officials have stated that ensuring the safety and security of passengers and aircraft operations remains their highest priority.