Which Flights Are Affected at Delhi Airport? Complete Travel Advisory Guide
In the past week, flyers at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport have reported longer wait times, adjusted flight schedules, and operational alerts. These aren’t typical delays — they reflect rising geopolitical tensions between India and Pakistan.
What Triggered the Disruption?
The turning point came on June 9, when five Indian Army personnel were killed in a terrorist ambush in Jammu & Kashmir. The Indian Army swiftly responded with what it called Operation Sindoor, a targeted retaliation against the attackers. While India hasn’t officially named any foreign involvement, the regional security environment has become visibly tense.
Amid this backdrop, Saudi Arabia’s deputy foreign minister made an unannounced trip to Delhi — interpreted by analysts as part of a behind-the-scenes diplomatic push to de-escalate.
As a senior Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) official told reporters:
“We are monitoring the situation. Passenger safety is paramount, and airlines have been asked to remain flexible.”
How Delhi Flights Are Being Affected
Delhi Airport is a crucial hub for flights heading west toward Europe, the Middle East, and North America. Even without formal airspace restrictions, airliners are taking precautionary measures, particularly for routes crossing the India-Pakistan corridor. Here’s what passengers are noticing:
- Increased buffer times on international departures
- Rerouting of flights to avoid potentially restricted zones
- Early check-in advisories issued by both airlines and the airport
- Occasional aircraft ground holds due to traffic flow adjustments
These changes, while frustrating, are preemptive — meant to reduce chaos if tensions escalate further.
✈️ Flight Disruptions Due to India-Pakistan Tensions (May 2025)
| Flight/Airport | Destination(s) | Impact | Reason | Advised Action |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Delhi to London (British Airways) | London, UK | Delays up to 3 hours; rerouted via southern path | Avoidance of Pakistani airspace due to military tensions | Check flight status; allow extra time for connections |
| Delhi to Frankfurt (Lufthansa) | Frankfurt, Germany | Extended flight duration by ~30 minutes | Rerouting to avoid conflict zones | Monitor airline communications; plan for potential delays |
| Delhi to New York (Air India) | New York, USA | Added fuel stop in Copenhagen; total journey ~18 hours | Closure of Pakistani airspace necessitating longer route | Stay updated with airline notifications; prepare for extended travel time |
| Delhi to Chicago (Air India) | Chicago, USA | Rerouted with fuel stop in Vienna; journey extended by ~4 hours | Airspace restrictions over Pakistan | Confirm flight details; anticipate longer travel duration |
| Delhi to Toronto (Air India) | Toronto, Canada | Flight time increased to ~15 hours | Detour around closed airspace | Check for schedule changes; adjust plans accordingly |
| Delhi to Tashkent (IndiGo) | Tashkent, Uzbekistan | Flight suspensions | Aircraft range limitations due to longer detour | Contact airline for rebooking options or refunds |
| Delhi to Almaty (IndiGo) | Almaty, Kazakhstan | Flight suspensions | Extended route exceeds aircraft range | Reach out to airline for alternative arrangements |
| Amritsar Airport | Various destinations | Airport closure; flight cancellations | Proximity to conflict zone; security concerns | Avoid travel to/from this airport; seek alternative routes |
| Srinagar Airport | Various destinations | Airport closure; flight cancellations | Security measures amid regional tensions | Postpone travel plans; consult with airlines for updates |
| Jammu Airport | Various destinations | Airport closure; flight cancellations | Heightened security due to nearby military activities | Defer travel; stay informed through official channels |
| Leh Airport | Various destinations | Airport closure; flight cancellations | Strategic location necessitating temporary suspension of operations | Monitor advisories; consider alternative travel arrangements |
| IndiGo Domestic Flights | Multiple routes within India | Cancellation of 165 flights | Operational challenges due to airspace restrictions and airport closures | Check flight status; explore rebooking or refund options |
| Air India Domestic Flights | Multiple routes within India | Numerous cancellations; some international flights diverted | Disruptions from airspace closures and security concerns | Stay updated with airline announcements; adjust travel plans accordingly |
| SpiceJet Domestic Flights | Multiple routes within India | Flight cancellations | Airspace restrictions impacting flight operations | Verify flight status; contact airline for assistance |
| KLM, Singapore Airlines, Thai Airways | European and Asian destinations | Rerouting flights to avoid Pakistani airspace | Safety precautions amid regional conflict | Monitor airline communications; anticipate longer flight durations |
| United Airlines, Korean Air | Various international destinations | Flight cancellations and rerouting | Airspace closures and safety concerns | Check with airlines for rebooking options; stay informed on travel advisories |
| China Airlines | London, Frankfurt, Rome | Flight disruptions; some cancellations | Avoidance of conflict zones; operational adjustments | Contact airline for updated flight information; plan for possible delays |
Note: Travelers are strongly advised to:
- Regularly check with airlines for the latest flight status and schedule changes.
- Allow extra time for connections due to potential delays.
- Stay informed through official travel advisories and news updates.
- Consider flexible travel arrangements and have contingency plans in place.
For the most current information, consult your airline’s official website or contact their customer service directly.
Despite the concerns around flight disruptions and airport advisories, I personally traveled from Delhi to Mumbai today (Akasa Air, May 11) and found the journey to be remarkably smooth. While there were additional security checks at Delhi Airport, the process was well-managed, and I didn’t observe any signs of panic or confusion. Flights seemed to be operating as scheduled, and the airport staff were calm and helpful throughout. This experience highlights that while it’s important to stay alert and informed, not all travel is being disrupted on a ground level.
Has This Happened Before?
Yes. After the 2019 Balakot airstrikes, Pakistan closed its airspace for nearly five months. Thousands of flights were rerouted, leading to longer travel times and significant losses for global airlines — with Delhi bearing the brunt. This time, authorities are applying those lessons early.
Behind the Delays: How Airlines and Airports Are Responding
As tensions rise between India and Pakistan, Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) — one of South Asia’s busiest — has moved into operational caution mode. Though there has been no formal closure or military alert issued for civil aviation, the aviation ecosystem is acting preemptively.
Airlines Are Playing It Safe
Airlines flying west from Delhi — especially those operating routes over Pakistani airspace — are initiating temporary route adjustments and building in delays as a buffer. This is not new; it’s a tactical move that echoes the airspace rerouting seen during prior standoffs.
As per an Air India operations official,
“We haven’t received direct instructions to avoid Pakistan airspace yet, but we’re adjusting based on risk models and ground intelligence.”
Key updates from major airlines:
- Air India: Added holding time to certain Europe and US-bound flights, with real-time rerouting in case of sudden closure.
- IndiGo: Issued a travel advisory asking flyers to arrive early for international departures from Delhi.
- Vistara: Currently monitoring government advisories closely and staying prepared for last-minute route shifts.
Most of these reroutings are adding 15–40 minutes of extra flying time on some long-haul routes. For passengers, that could mean longer check-in queues, possible gate changes, and increased anxiety over missed connections.
Inside the Airport: Longer Waits and Contingency Planning
The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF), which manages airport security, has stepped up patrols across terminals, particularly around immigration counters and departure lounges. While there is no indication of a specific threat, the elevated vigilance is part of standard protocol in such times.
Other passenger-facing impacts include:
- Boarding gate reassignments for flights with potential airspace detours.
- Delays in baggage handling due to last-minute aircraft swaps or turnaround slowdowns.
- Increased presence of airline ground staff to handle real-time rebookings and answer traveler concerns.
A senior airport official anonymously noted:
“We’ve instructed staff to prioritize flyers with tight international connections. We want to avoid unnecessary panic while still being cautious.”
No Formal Airspace Ban — Yet
Unlike in 2019, when Pakistan completely closed its airspace, no such move has been made yet. But that doesn’t mean things are status quo. FlightRadar24 has shown several aircraft heading west from Delhi or Mumbai making slight but deliberate deviations from usual routes — often overflying Rajasthan or Gujarat before turning west.
This is done to maintain flexibility in case of a sudden airspace restriction and to avoid dense zones that could become chokepoints.
Are Other Airports Affected?
Currently, Delhi is the most impacted due to its geographic and logistical role as a launch point for numerous West-bound flights. However:
- Amritsar, Jaipur, and Chandigarh have issued low-key alerts to airlines about being prepared for overflow or diversion if needed.
- Mumbai and Ahmedabad flights may see indirect impacts if rerouted traffic leads to scheduling congestion.
What Travelers Need to Know: Proactive Steps to Take
For those traveling to, from, or through Delhi, being informed is key. While air travel remains a primary concern in the current context, there are several steps you can take to avoid disruptions and ensure a smoother travel experience.
Stay Updated with Real-Time Alerts
Given the unpredictable nature of airspace restrictions and operational delays, travelers are strongly encouraged to sign up for real-time alerts.
Airport Apps and Airline Notifications:
- Download the official Delhi Airport app or subscribe to flight alert services for up-to-date information on delays, cancellations, and gate changes.
- Airlines such as Air India, Vistara, and IndiGo are sending push notifications about schedule changes or rerouting in real time.
“It’s essential to keep your phone charged and check your flight status at regular intervals,” says a spokesperson for IndiGo.
Flexibility Is Key: Adjusting Your Travel Plans
If you’re flying on a long-haul flight, consider adjusting your expectations about timeframes. If you’re already at the airport, check in early, as longer security and immigration queues can lead to unanticipated delays.
- For international travelers, those connecting flights from Delhi to destinations in Europe, North America, or the Middle East could see increased travel time. In this situation, allow at least 2-3 extra hours for any connection.
- For domestic passengers, allow for an additional 45–60 minutes in security and check-in times to cover any potential delays caused by operational slowdowns.
Rebooking: What to Expect If Your Flight Is Affected
Airlines are already offering free rebooking on flights that are directly impacted by delays or cancellations. If your flight is rerouted or rescheduled, you will be notified via email or SMS.
Here’s how to approach it:
- Check with your airline: If you’ve already checked in, contact your airline directly or visit their counters at the airport. Ask about potential rebooking options if your flight faces substantial delays or cancellations.
- Use the airline’s self-service portal: Most airlines are allowing passengers to rebook on alternate flights directly via their website or mobile app.
“Travelers should be aware that although airlines may offer free rebooking, priority will be given to those with earlier flight times,” says an official from Air India.
What Happens If Airspace Restrictions Tighten?
While current rerouting is relatively minor, if Pakistan closes its airspace again or tensions escalate, more significant disruptions could occur. Here’s how it could affect your travel:
- Extended delays: Flights heading west from Delhi could see significant detours over different airspaces. For example, long-haul flights might be rerouted over the Middle East instead of flying over Pakistan.
- Flight diversions: Flights that cannot proceed or are required to land in alternate airports could face unexpected stopovers. Passengers will be informed as soon as any re-routing is determined.
Safety and Security: What You Can Expect
Delhi Airport has implemented additional security measures in light of the rising tensions. Here’s what you can do to stay safe and aware:
- Enhanced security checks: Expect longer waiting times at check-in counters and heightened scrutiny during security screenings. These are precautionary measures and should not cause panic.
- Airport staff guidance: There will be visible airport staff and additional security personnel at terminals, particularly in baggage claim and transit areas. They are there to assist with any unusual changes to your itinerary.
- Stay aware of your surroundings: Airports, especially large hubs like IGI, can be overwhelming during high-stress situations. Always be aware of announcements, keep your belongings close, and trust official sources for any changes to your flight.
Impacted Destinations from Delhi: What Flights Are Affected?
As the situation between India and Pakistan evolves, air travel from Delhi—one of the busiest airports in the world—has seen significant adjustments. In this section, we will cover which destinations are most impacted and the specific flights that might be affected due to rerouted airspace or operational issues at Delhi Airport.
Long-Haul Flights: Europe, North America, and the Middle East
Long-haul flights to Europe, North America, and the Middle East are most likely to be impacted by the current restrictions on airspace. Several of these flights pass over Pakistan or travel in close proximity to Pakistani airspace, which is currently restricted or closed.
Destinations Impacted:
- London: Flights to London Heathrow from Delhi could face delays or detours as aircraft may need to avoid airspace over Pakistan. Airlines like British Airways and Air India frequently service this route.
- New York and Chicago: Flights to major cities in the United States like New York (JFK) and Chicago O’Hare could see delays due to detours through airspace in the Middle East or the Atlantic.
- Dubai: While Dubai is a close regional destination, some flights from Delhi may be impacted by airspace adjustments. Airlines like Emirates and IndiGo might reroute their flights depending on the airspace availability over Pakistan.
- Frankfurt and Amsterdam: Flights to major hubs in Europe such as Frankfurt and Amsterdam will likely face slight delays as well, particularly if rerouting occurs through Iran or Afghanistan instead of Pakistan.
Regional and Short-Haul Flights: Impact on Domestic Routes
Short-haul flights within India or to nearby South Asian countries are relatively less impacted by the airspace closure but could still experience delays at check-in or due to operational slowdowns at Delhi Airport.
Destinations Affected:
- Mumbai, Bengaluru, Chennai, and Kolkata: These domestic flights are operating with minimal disruption, but passengers should anticipate possible delays at check-in counters or in the security lines due to heightened security measures.
- Kathmandu, Dhaka, Colombo: Flights to Nepal, Bangladesh, and Sri Lanka may also be affected if there are restrictions on airspace over Pakistan or neighboring countries. The detours could affect both Indian and international airlines flying to these destinations.
Southeast Asia: Routes to Thailand, Singapore, and Malaysia
Southeast Asian routes are somewhat shielded from major disruptions, but flights to Thailand (Bangkok), Singapore, and Malaysia (Kuala Lumpur) could be affected, as flights may need to take slightly longer routes depending on airspace availability.
Airlines and Flights Affected:
- Thai Airways, Singapore Airlines, and Malaysia Airlines will likely see some minor changes in flight timings or durations as detours are made to avoid Pakistan’s airspace.
- IndiGo and SpiceJet flights operating to Southeast Asia may also adjust routes accordingly.
Middle East Connections: Impact on Delhi to Gulf Routes
Given the proximity to Pakistan, flights from Delhi to the Middle East region, particularly to countries like Saudi Arabia, the United Arab Emirates, and Qatar, are being rerouted. Although these routes are typically safe from airspace closures, airlines are taking necessary precautions.
Flights Affected:
- Delhi to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, and Doha: While these routes are relatively short, airlines may still reroute flights to avoid the closed zones over Pakistan, especially if air traffic control constraints arise.
- Flights to Riyadh, Jeddah, and other Saudi cities: These routes may also face delays if airspace over the Gulf becomes congested due to the diverted flights from other regions.
How Airlines Are Handling Flight Disruptions
While airlines are working to minimize inconvenience, it’s important to understand the operational strategies being adopted:
- Rebooking and Alternative Routes: Airlines are proactively offering free rebooking options for passengers whose flights are delayed or canceled due to the airspace issues. Depending on your destination, you may be rerouted via alternative airspaces like Oman, Iran, or Saudi Arabia, which may add additional hours to your journey.
- Delayed Departures: International long-haul flights will likely see delayed departures as airlines adjust schedules to account for airspace availability and flight safety.
- No Immediate Cancellations: At this stage, major flight cancellations are minimal. The primary disruption is delays caused by rerouting, longer flight times, and security checks.
How to Stay Prepared for Your Flight
Travelers should keep these tips in mind as they plan their journeys from Delhi:
- Check Flight Status Regularly: As airlines adjust routes and schedules, passengers should stay in touch with their airlines and check flight statuses regularly.
- Allow Extra Time: Given the heightened security and operational adjustments, plan to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before international flights and 2 hours for domestic flights.
- Sign Up for Alerts: Many airlines offer text and email alerts for flight delays and cancellations. Travelers should sign up for these notifications to stay informed about changes to their travel plans.
Understanding the Scope of Air Travel Disruptions
With airspace restrictions in place and possible detours affecting long-haul flights, passengers should stay alert and prepared for potential delays. Although domestic travel is relatively unaffected, international flights—especially those to Europe, the U.S., and the Middle East—are facing adjustments in both timing and route. By staying informed, travelers can minimize disruptions and ensure their journey remains as smooth as possible.