Srinagar International Airport on Saturday announced that there will be no full runway closure this year for repair and maintenance of its airfield, a move welcomed by the tourism and business sectors.
Chief Minister Omar Abdullah thanked the Centre for revoking the proposed closure, saying it would spare travellers and the tourism industry from significant disruption during the peak season.
In a post on X, the airport authorities said there would be no full runway closure during 2026.
“Airport operations will continue daily from 8:00 am to 5:00 pm. Night closures for runway maintenance work will continue until October 2026,” the airport said.
The authorities added that the previously proposed Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) providing for full runway closures on Mondays and Tuesdays has been withdrawn. Airlines will operate their scheduled flights and revise their schedules in line with the updated operating hours.
“Passengers are requested to always check the latest flight status with their respective airline before departing for the airport and to rely only on information obtained from official sources,” the airport said.
Taking to X, Abdullah expressed gratitude to Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Civil Aviation Ministe ar Kinjarapu Ram Mohan Naidu for acceding to the Jammu and Kashmir government’s request to suspend the airport closure plan.
“The proposed closure would have created significant inconvenience for regular travellers and forced tour groups and tourists to cancel their planned visits,” the Chief Minister said.
The Kashmir Economic Alliance (KEA), an umbrella body representing traders, transporters and other business stakeholders, welcomed the decision to withdraw the proposed full airfield closure and maintain uninterrupted daytime flight operations throughout the year.
KEA spokesperson Qazi Tauseef told businessline that the decision had come as a major relief for the trade, tourism and business sectors of Jammu and Kashmir, which would have been severely affected by prolonged disruptions in air connectivity.
“The withdrawal of the closure plan will help sustain tourist arrivals, business travel and the movement of perishable goods, all of which are crucial to the region’s economy,” he said.
Published on July 4, 2026
