Amritsar (National Times): Air travel resumed at Shaheed Bhagat Singh International Airport in Chandigarh and Sri Guru Ram Dass Ji International Airport in Amritsar on Monday, May 12, 2025, after a U.S.-brokered ceasefire between India and Pakistan ended days of heightened conflict. The reopening of these key Punjab airports marks a significant step toward normalcy following disruptions caused by Pakistani drone strikes and shelling.
The airports were closed on May 10 amid red alerts in Punjab’s border districts, triggered by Pakistan’s attacks on civilian and military targets in response to India’s ‘Operation Sindoor.’ The ceasefire, announced by U.S. President Donald Trump and confirmed by Pakistan’s Deputy Prime Minister Ishaq Dar, halted hostilities, allowing aviation authorities to lift restrictions after thorough security clearances.
“Flight operations at Chandigarh and Amritsar have restarted today, May 12, following the de-escalation of tensions,” an Airports Authority of India (AAI) official said. “Passengers are advised to check with their respective airlines for updated flight schedules and to comply with enhanced security protocols.”
Major carriers, including SpiceJet, IndiGo, and Air India, have begun operating domestic and international flights, with services to Delhi, Dubai, and London among the first to resume from Amritsar. Chandigarh saw its first departure, an IndiGo flight to Mumbai, take off at 10 a.m. “It’s a relief to see flights back. The last few days were chaotic,” said Rohan Sharma, a Chandigarh-based businessman stranded during the shutdown.
The reopening follows the neutralization of over 50 Pakistani drones by Indian forces, ensuring the airspace is secure. Punjab’s Director General of Police, Gaurav Yadav, confirmed that security at both airports has been bolstered to prevent any incidents. On X, Amritsar’s airport authority posted, “We’re back in the skies! Flights resumed at Sri Guru Ram Dass Ji International Airport. Check with your airline for details.”
The resumption is a boost for Punjab’s tourism and trade, particularly in Amritsar, home to the Golden Temple. While passengers are advised to expect delays due to ongoing security checks, the restart of flights signals hope for a region recovering from a week of uncertainty.
