The Srinagar International Airport in Jammu and Kashmir will shut down flight operations for 15 days starting October 1 due to essential runway maintenance and repair works. This closure coincides with the Durga Puja holidays, raising concerns about potential losses in local tourism, especially from West Bengal. To facilitate the maintenance, the airport will gradually reduce operations, with two-day closures every week starting in July leading up to the full shutdown in October.
The airport officials emphasized the necessity of these repairs for operational safety, citing existing flight restrictions in place since April 6 following an Indian Air Force Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). Currently, the airport’s operational hours have been limited from 8 a.m. to 5 p.m., a significant reduction from the previous schedule. Concerns have been raised by hospitality and travel stakeholders regarding the economic impact of cutting off air connectivity during a peak tourism season.
With an average daily passenger traffic of nearly 4,000, the Srinagar International Airport plays a crucial role in tourism. While some tourists use the Jammu-Srinagar national highway, most arrivals rely on flight services. Despite operational train services, tourists still prefer air travel, highlighting the significance of the airport’s closure during a busy tourism period.
