Major Relief for Kashmir Tourism as Sgr Airport Avoids Full Runway Shutdown
Proposed NOTAM for weekly and October runway closure withdrawn after intervention by J&K Govt, tourism stakeholders
Srinagar: In a major relief for the tourism sector and air travellers in Kashmir, authorities have withdrawn the proposed full closure of operations at , ensuring uninterrupted flight connectivity during the peak travel season.
The decision comes after sustained intervention by the Jammu and Kashmir government and repeated appeals from tourism stakeholders who had warned that the proposed closure could severely impact tourist arrivals, travel plans and business activity across the Valley.
Earlier, authorities had proposed restricting runway operations at the Srinagar airport on every Monday and Tuesday between July 1 and September 30, 2026, besides a complete shutdown of runway operations from October 1 to October 16 for maintenance-related works.
However, in a fresh update issued on Saturday, airport authorities clarified that there would be no full airfield closure this year and that flight operations would continue on all days.
According to the revised operational plan, airport services will function daily between 8:00 am and 5:00 pm, while night-time runway closures for maintenance will continue till October 2026.
“The previously proposed NOTAM regarding full runway closure on Mondays and Tuesdays is being withdrawn,” the airport authorities stated, adding that airlines would continue adjusting schedules in line with the operational timings.
Passengers have been advised to check flight schedules directly with their respective airlines and rely on official communication channels for verified updates.
Reacting to the development, Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister thanked Union Defence Minister and Civil Aviation Minister for responding positively to the concerns raised by the Union Territory government.
Notably, the withdrawal of the proposal is expected to provide a much-needed boost to the tourism industry, which is currently witnessing a busy summer season with a steady inflow of visitors from across the country.
Tourism stakeholders had earlier expressed apprehension that any prolonged disruption in flight connectivity during the peak season could adversely affect hotel bookings, tour operations and overall tourist confidence in the Valley.
