Civil aviation on high alert; airlines issue fresh travel advisories

New Delhi/Jammu: Civil aviation authorities have stepped up monitoring of flight operations across the country after security forces detected Pakistani drones near the heavily-guarded Jammu airport on Thursday evening, officials said.

Sounds resembling blasts triggered panic across Jammu city late in the evening as drones were spotted near the airport, which also houses a key Indian Air Force station, reported PTI. It is not yet clear whether the airport itself was targeted.

The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Airports Authority of India (AAI) are closely monitoring operations at airports nationwide. One source confirmed that flight services at Delhi airport remain normal.

Amid heightened security following Operation Sindoor—under which the Indian armed forces conducted strikes on terror camps in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir in retaliation for last month’s Pahalgam terror attack that claimed at least 26 lives—around 27 airports have been temporarily closed.

Airlines issue advisories amid enhanced airport security

In light of tightened security, several airlines have issued travel advisories urging passengers to arrive early at airports and comply with new boarding regulations.

SpiceJet advised passengers to arrive at the airport at least three hours before departure to ensure smooth check-in and boarding.

IndiGo tweeted: “In these extraordinary times, heightened security measures are in place across all airports. We request passengers to allow extra time to accommodate additional checks and formalities. We appreciate your understanding and cooperation.”

Air India also issued an advisory: “In view of an order by the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security on enhanced measures at airports, passengers across India are advised to arrive at least three hours before scheduled departure. Check-in closes 75 minutes prior to departure.”

Akasa Air echoed similar guidance: “Due to enhanced security measures at all airports across India, we request passengers to arrive at least three hours before departure. Carry a valid government-approved photo ID for airport entry. Only one handbag up to 7 kg is permitted. All passengers will undergo secondary security checks prior to boarding.” Authorities have urged all passengers to strictly follow the revised guidelines to avoid delays and ensure seamless travel.

Meanwhile, the PIB Fact Check has clarified that claims circulating on social media about a nationwide ban on airport entry are false. The government has made no such decision.