Srinagar Airport Closure: Omar Abdullah Seeks Alternative Flights from Awantipora

Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah met Union Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu on Tuesday to raise concerns over the proposed closure of Srinagar Airport for maintenance. Abdullah suggested operating limited civilian flights from the Awantipora Air Base to ensure connectivity during the shutdown.

The airport will close every Monday and Tuesday until September 30 for runway and navigational upgrades. A longer full closure for maintenance is also planned, though the exact dates have not been announced. Abdullah stressed that uninterrupted air connectivity is vital for tourism and local businesses in the region.

Srinagar Airport is the primary gateway for the Kashmir Valley, handling roughly 200 flights a day during peak summer months. The summer tourist season, a critical period for Kashmir's economy, runs from April to October. A prolonged closure could disrupt travel plans for thousands of visitors and hit hotels, taxi operators, and handicraft sellers.

Awantipora Air Base, about 30 kilometres south of Srinagar, is operated by the Indian Air Force. It has been used for civilian flights during previous emergencies, including the 2019 security lockdown. Abdullah argued that allowing a limited schedule from Awantipora would maintain basic connectivity without compromising the maintenance work at Srinagar.

The Union ministers acknowledged the concerns but did not announce a decision. The Aviation Ministry said it would examine the feasibility of using Awantipora for civilian operations, including security clearances and air traffic control coordination.

For airlines operating in the region – IndiGo, SpiceJet, GoAir, and Vistara – the closure creates scheduling uncertainty. Srinagar is a high-demand route, especially during summer. A shift to Awantipora would require airlines to adjust crew rotations and ground handling logistics. The base has a shorter runway than Srinagar, which may limit aircraft types and payload.

The meeting came as the summer booking season picks up. Travel agents in Srinagar reported that advance bookings for June and July were already 15% higher than last year, according to local media. Any disruption could push tourists to alternative destinations like Himachal Pradesh or Ladakh.

Abdullah said he would follow up with the ministries to ensure a solution before the maintenance window opens. No date has been set for a final decision.