Flight operations at Delhi IGI airport suspended partially till January 26 | Check details

Flight operations at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport in Delhi will be suspended from 10:20 AM to 12:45 PM IST daily until January 26, 2025, due to heightened security measures for Republic Day celebrations. The suspension will affect both arrivals and departures during the specified time window. The advisory, issued by Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), is in accordance with a "Notice to Airmen" (NOTAM) that mandates airspace restrictions to facilitate smooth operations during the national event.

During the restricted period, all incoming and outgoing flights will be halted. Passengers scheduled to fly during these hours are urged to contact their respective airlines for updated information regarding flight rescheduling or cancellations. Airlines are expected to modify flight schedules to accommodate the air traffic suspension, and travelers may experience delays or need to adjust their travel plans accordingly.

In addition to flight disruptions, significant traffic restrictions are in place across key routes in Delhi, especially around Kartavyapath, where the Republic Day parade will take place. The Delhi Traffic Police has issued advisories for motorists, advising them to avoid certain major intersections, including Rafi Marg, Janpath, Mansingh Road, and C-Hexagon. These roadblocks and diversions are in effect from 10:15 AM to 12:30 PM daily from January 17 to January 21 to ensure uninterrupted passage for parade rehearsals. The public is encouraged to plan their journeys in advance to avoid potential congestion.

Further security measures include a ban on the operation of drones and other sub-conventional aerial platforms over Delhi from January 18 to February 1. The restrictions apply to unmanned aerial vehicles (UAVs), para-gliders, hot air balloons, remotely piloted aircraft, micro-light aircraft, quadcopters, and other similar devices. The directive, issued by Delhi Police Commissioner Sanjay Arora, aims to mitigate potential security risks and prevent any unauthorized aerial activities that could jeopardize public safety or security during the celebrations.

The prohibition on these aerial devices is being strictly enforced, with violators subject to penalties under Section 223 of the Bharatiya Nyaya Sanhita (BNS). The Delhi Police has also warned that any illegal use of drones or other aerial platforms during this period could result in legal action. Authorities are urging full compliance with the airspace and security restrictions to ensure the safety of the public, dignitaries, and critical infrastructure throughout the Republic Day events.