In the wake of escalating tensions between India and Pakistan following Operation Sindoor India’s targeted military response to the April 22 Pahalgam terror attack all major airports across the country have been placed under heightened security. Airlines have issued detailed travel advisories urging passengers to adhere to new safety protocols, including double-layered security checks.
The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has directed all airports to implement stringent screening measures, prompting airlines to update passengers about necessary preparations ahead of their journeys.
Air India: Arrive 3 Hours Before Departure
Flag carrier Air India, in an official advisory, instructed passengers to report at the airport at least three hours prior to their scheduled departure. The airline emphasized that check-in counters will shut 75 minutes before take-off, citing BCAS orders. “This is to ensure smooth check-in and boarding amid enhanced security measures,” the statement read.
IndiGo: Waiver on Changes for Select Routes
IndiGo echoed similar sentiments in its advisory, asking travellers to allow extra time for airport formalities. “In these extraordinary times, intensified security procedures are being followed at all airports. We appreciate your cooperation,” the airline stated via X (formerly Twitter).
IndiGo also announced a change/cancellation fee waiver for tickets booked on or before May 8 for select airports including Srinagar, Jammu, Amritsar, Leh, Chandigarh, Dharamshala, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Kishangarh, and Rajkot.
Akasa Air: Mandatory Secondary Security Screening
Akasa Air released a comprehensive advisory urging flyers to check in online and carry valid government-approved ID. The airline highlighted that only one cabin bag up to 7 kg will be allowed, and that all passengers must go through a secondary security check at the boarding gate as per regulatory mandates.
“To ensure a seamless experience, passengers are encouraged to arrive at least three hours before their flight,” the statement added.
SpiceJet: Strict Check-in Deadlines
SpiceJet also complied with the new BCAS directives, requesting travellers to arrive early. “In compliance with enhanced security measures, check-in counters will close 75 minutes before departure,” the airline confirmed.
With military tensions escalating near border states, and Operation Sindoor actively targeting terror hubs in Pakistan and PoK, aviation authorities remain on high alert. Airports in several regions — including Jammu & Kashmir, Punjab, Rajasthan, and parts of Gujarat — have already suspended operations temporarily, affecting schedules nationwide.