SRINAGAR: Srinagar International Airport will suspend all flight operations for 16 days from October 1, 2026 to October 16, 2026 to carry out essential runway maintenance and repair work, officials said on Tuesday.
مسافروں کے لیے اہم اطلاع ✈️
انڈین ایئر فورس کی جانب سے مجوزہ رن وے مینٹیننس کے تحت، منصوبہ بندی کی گئی ہے کہ سری نگر ایئرپورٹ کا رن وے 01 جولائی 2026 سے 30 ستمبر 2026 تک ہر پیر اور منگل کو دستیاب نہیں ہوگا۔
مزید برآں، 01 اکتوبر 2026 سے 16 اکتوبر 2026 تک رن وے آپریشنز کی مکمل… pic.twitter.com/iROEF7Lda0
— Srinagar Airport (@SrinagarAirport) June 2, 2026
In a post on X, airport authorities said the temporary shutdown forms part of a planned maintenance programme aimed at ensuring aviation safety and improving long-term runway efficiency.
The closure is expected to significantly impact Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism sector as it coincides with the peak Durga Puja travel season, when the Valley traditionally witnesses a sharp influx of tourists, particularly from West Bengal. Travel operators have warned that the shutdown may lead to widespread cancellations and substantial financial losses.
According to airport officials, a phased maintenance schedule will be implemented ahead of the complete shutdown. From July 2026, operations will be restricted on two days each week, culminating in the full suspension of flights in October.
Officials said the runway maintenance is essential for safe and uninterrupted aircraft operations. They added that flight restrictions have already been in place since April 6, following a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Indian Air Force.
The phased restrictions and full closure are part of scheduled infrastructure upkeep measures designed to ensure long-term operational safety and reliability of the airport.
Meanwhile, stakeholders in the tourism and trade sectors have expressed concern over the timing of the shutdown, urging authorities to explore alternative arrangements to minimise disruption. Among the suggestions being discussed informally is the use of Awantipora Air Force Station for limited civilian operations during the closure period to maintain essential connectivity to the Valley, subject to security and operational clearances.
