The Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) has mandated enhanced security protocols at all Indian airports following escalating tensions with Pakistan. All departing air passengers will now undergo Secondary Ladder Point Checks (SLPC) before boarding. The directive applies nationwide across all airlines and airports. This move follows widespread flight disruptions and the temporary closure of 27 airports due to Operation Sindoor.
Revised refund & rescheduling policies
Airlines are currently offering full refunds or one-time waivers on rescheduling:
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Air India & AI Express: Refunds + waivers for defence personnel
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IndiGo: Free rescheduling or refunds on affected routes
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Akasa Air & SpiceJet: Full support on date changes at no extra cost
Note: Indian carriers have cancelled over 430 domestic flights. Check your airline’s website or app for real-time updates.
Heightened airport vigilance
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Visitor entry into terminal buildings has been suspended. Sale of visitor entry tickets is temporarily on hold.
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Expect intensified checks at airport entry points:
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Thorough valid, government-approved ID verification before entry
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Random baggage screening
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Enhanced scrutiny of all vehicles approaching terminals
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All airports have been instructed to ensure CCTV systems are fully functional.
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In-flight security personnel (Air Marshals) will be deployed as needed, based on route sensitivity and random selection.
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Airlines are urging passengers to arrive at least 3 hours prior to flight time. Meanwhile, check-in closes 75 mins before departure.
Airport closures: 27 locations affected
As part of heightened security measures following Operation Sindoor, 27 airports across northern, western and central India are closed for commercial flights until 5:29 AM on Saturday, 10 May. Major closures include: Jammu, Srinagar, Leh, Amritsar, Chandigarh, Bikaner, Jodhpur, Rajkot, Bhuj, Jamnagar, Pathankot and Dharamshala.
Passengers are advised to check flight status before travelling and plan accordingly.
