New Delhi, May 12, 2025 – In a significant development indicating the easing of hostilities between India and Pakistan, the Government of India has officially reopened 32 airports that were previously shut down due to heightened military tensions along the border. The move comes after both nations reached a ceasefire agreement over the weekend, bringing a sense of relief to millions impacted by the disruption of air travel and regional instability.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI), in a public statement released on Monday, confirmed that all 32 airports are now fully operational and open for civil aviation activities with immediate effect. These airports, located primarily in the northern and western regions of the country, were closed as a precautionary measure amid escalating conflict with Pakistan earlier this month.

“The 32 airports that were closed for civilian operations during the recent border tensions are now available for regular use,” the statement read. The AAI emphasized that all necessary safety inspections had been conducted to ensure secure resumption of services at these facilities.

The reopening of the airports aligns with Pakistan’s decision to fully restore its airspace, which had also been restricted during the peak of the skirmishes. Pakistan Civil Aviation Authority confirmed on Saturday, May 10, that it had reopened all affected air corridors, allowing for a full return to scheduled flight operations.

India’s leading private airline, IndiGo, welcomed the development, announcing that it would gradually resume operations on all previously suspended routes. “We are closely coordinating with relevant authorities and airport operators to restart our services in the affected areas,” an IndiGo spokesperson said. “Passenger safety and operational efficiency remain our top priorities.”

The coordinated reopening of airspace and airport infrastructure on both sides is being seen as a hopeful sign of de-escalation, with analysts urging both countries to maintain diplomatic channels to avoid future disruptions. The resumption of flights is expected to restore normalcy in regional connectivity, benefiting passengers, airlines, and the broader economy.