No Nationwide Airport Ban, Govt Says After Operation Sindoor

The government on Friday dismissed a viral social media claim that civilian airports nationwide have been shut amid escalating tensions with Pakistan. The Press Information Bureau’s Fact Check unit posted on X that no such ban has been imposed, and shared a list of 24 airports temporarily closed to commercial flights under a routine NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) directive.

The clarification follows widespread misinformation circulating after India launched “Operation Sindoor” in Pakistan and Pakistan-occupied Kashmir. The operation, ordered in retaliation for a terrorist attack in Pahalgam that left 26 tourists dead, targeted nine militant training camps linked to Lashkar-e-Taiba, Jaish-e-Mohammed and Hizbul Mujahideen.

In New Delhi on Thursday, Defence Minister Rajnath Singh told an all-party meeting that Indian forces had neutralized about 100 militants during the precision strikes. Union Minister Kiren Rijiju later reaffirmed that Operation Sindoor remains active.

A separate PIB Fact Check post noted the Indian Army repelled attempts by Pakistan to infiltrate swarm drones across the Line of Control. The government highlighted its aim to contain the threat without further escalation, but warned it would respond to any Pakistani counteraction.

Despite the government’s assurance that no additional airport closures have been ordered, travelers are advised to verify flight operations before departure, as civil flight suspensions at the listed airports remain in effect under the existing NOTAM.