By Tehelka Web Desk
The proposed twice-a-week closure of passenger flights at Srinagar Airport has been withdrawn, providing major relief to travellers and the tourism industry ahead of the peak travel season.
Airport authorities, however, said reduced operating hours will remain in place until October 2026, with flight operations restricted to 8 am to 5 pm as runway maintenance continues.
Last month, a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Indian Air Force (IAF) had proposed suspending passenger flight operations every Monday and Tuesday from July to facilitate runway repairs. The notice has now been withdrawn, allowing flights to operate on all seven days of the week.
Welcoming the decision, Chief Minister Omar Abdullah thanked Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Union Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu for revoking the proposed closure.
“Grateful to the Defence Minister @rajnathsingh Sb & Civil Aviation Minister @RamMNK for acceding to our request and suspending the airport closure order. This closure had created a lot of difficulties for regular travellers & forced tour groups/tourists to cancel planned visits,” Omar posted on X.
He said the decision would ensure uninterrupted air connectivity to Jammu and Kashmir and provide relief to passengers, the tourism sector, and businesses.
