Amid escalating tensions between India and Pakistan, airlines are advising passengers to arrive at airports at least three hours before their scheduled departure time. This advisory comes in the wake of heightened security measures implemented at airports across India. The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has instructed all airlines and airports to enhance security protocols.
The advisory was issued after a military escalation between India and Pakistan led to widespread airspace and airport closures. Tensions rose after India launched Operation Sindoor targeting terror camps in Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. This was in response to a terrorist attack in Pahalgam, Jammu and Kashmir, where 26 civilians were killed. Pakistan retaliated by launching missiles and drone attacks toward strategic Indian targets.
In response to the escalating situation, several airports in northern and western India have been temporarily shut down. These closures have resulted in significant disruptions to air travel, with numerous flights being cancelled or rerouted. Airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Akasa Air have cancelled flights to and from affected cities.
The enhanced security measures at airports include mandatory Secondary Ladder Point Checks (SLPC) for all passengers. The SLPC is a secondary-level security procedure where airline staff frisk passengers and their hand luggage just before boarding the aircraft. This is done after the initial security check by the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). The purpose of SLPC is to provide an extra layer of screening during high-security alerts.
In addition to SLPC, visitor entry to terminal buildings has been banned. Air marshals are also being deployed at appropriate areas. These measures are intended to ensure the safety and security of passengers and airport personnel.
Airlines have also issued travel advisories urging passengers to check their flight status before departure. Passengers are also advised to carry valid government-approved photo identification documents for entry to the airport. Check-in counters will now close 75 minutes before departure.
The closure of airspace and rerouting of flights have also affected international airlines. Carriers like Singapore Airlines, KLM, United Airlines, and Korean Air have altered routes or cancelled services entirely. Lufthansa and Air France are also rerouting flights to avoid Pakistani airspace. These rerouting and cancellations are causing further disruptions to air travel and increasing flight durations.
The current situation is expected to continue until at least May 10, 2025. Passengers are advised to stay updated on the latest developments and follow the instructions of airport and airline staff.
