Non-scheduled flights will be barred from landing or taking off at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport during specific hours on August 15, in line with security protocols for Independence Day.
An airport official confirmed on Wednesday that restrictions will apply from 6 am to 10 am and from 4 pm to 7 pm. The directive affects non-scheduled flights of scheduled carriers and chartered aircraft, but regular scheduled flights will remain unaffected.
The Aeronautical Information Services (AIS) under the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has issued a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) outlining the curbs. A NOTAM provides critical updates for flight operations personnel.
According to the advisory, the ban does not extend to Indian Air Force, Border Security Force, or Army aviation helicopters. Additionally, state-owned aircraft and helicopters transporting Governors or Chief Ministers, as well as flights engaged in quick response missions or urgent medical evacuations, are exempt.
The restrictions are part of enhanced airspace security measures in the capital during national celebrations. Such protocols are standard during high-profile events to ensure safety against potential aerial threats.
The IGI Airport, India’s busiest aviation hub, manages approximately 1,300 flight movements daily. Officials emphasised that the majority of passengers will not experience disruptions, as the measures target only a small segment of air traffic.