India-Pakistan Tensions Flare After Alleged Drone Swarm Attacks; Airspace Halted

Heightened tensions between India and Pakistan have triggered widespread airspace closures and travel disruptions after New Delhi reported detecting a large-scale drone intrusion attempt along its western border, while Islamabad claimed its airbases were targeted.

Allegations of Mass Drone Activity

According to official statements from India, a significant and coordinated attempt at drone intrusion was detected overnight on Thursday, May 8, 2025. India alleges that Pakistan deployed approximately 300 to 400 drones across at least 36 locations stretching from the northern region of Leh down to Sir Creek in the south.

The nature and origin of the drones are under scrutiny, with Indian defence sources suggesting they were possibly of Turkish origin. The suspected primary objective behind this unprecedented drone activity appears to be testing India’s Air Defences (AD) capabilities. Additionally, India reported that at least one armed drone specifically attempted to target the crucial Bhatinda military station.

Amidst these escalating claims, Wg Cdr Vyomika Singh, a representative speaking on the matter, stated that Pakistan was employing civil airliners as a “shield”, suggesting a deliberate tactic to complicate defensive responses.

Airspace Lockdown and Disruptions

The immediate fallout from the alleged drone incidents and the subsequent rise in tensions has been severe disruption to civilian air travel across the region.

Following the reported events, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) and other relevant aviation authorities swiftly issued Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs). These directives led to the temporary closure of 32 airports across northern and western India for civilian flights.

Initially, these closures were announced to be in effect until May 15. However, India later announced an extension, stating the cancellation of flight operations at the 32 affected airports was extended by 4 more days until May 15, as per the Ministry of Railways spokesperson providing context on related travel impacts. (Note: The specified dates of closure and extension until the same date reflect the information provided in the source summary).

The airspace restrictions on the Pakistani side were also significant. Early on Saturday, May 10, 2025, Pakistan media reports circulated claiming that three of Pakistan’s airbases had been targeted by India. In response to this alleged development, the Pakistan Airport Authority (PAA) notified the complete closure of its airspace for all traffic until 4 p.m. on May 10.

Impact on Civilian Travel and Government Response

The widespread grounding of flights has left thousands of travelers stranded, necessitating urgent governmental intervention.

The Tamil Nadu government, recognizing the plight of its citizens, took steps to assist. As instructed by Chief Minister M.K. Stalin, a dedicated help desk was established at New Delhi’s Tamil Nadu House to provide assistance to Tamils stranded specifically in Jammu and Kashmir. The difficulties in this region were exacerbated following the launch of an operation referred to as Operation Sindoor, details of which were not immediately clear but coincided with the heightened security situation.

Addressing the broader travel crisis, Union Railway Minister Ashwini Vaishnaw conducted a review of train operations on Friday, May 9, 2025. To alleviate the burden on passengers affected by the airport closures, particularly at Jammu and Chandigarh airports, the Minister ordered the arrangement of special trains. This measure was confirmed by a Ministry of Railways spokesperson, highlighting efforts to mitigate the disruption caused by the sudden halt in air services.

Broader Implications and Outlook

The alleged use of a large drone swarm represents a significant escalation in the tactics employed along the India-Pakistan frontier, signaling a potential shift in the nature of cross-border military posturing. The incident, occurring over sensitive border areas like Leh and Sir Creek and involving potential targeting of key military installations like Bhatinda, underscores the evolving challenges in air defence.

The reciprocal airspace closures by both nations reflect the immediate and serious reaction to the perceived threats. While air travel remains significantly impacted, the focus now turns to de-escalation efforts and the potential for further military or diplomatic responses from both sides. The situation remains fluid as authorities on both sides assess the implications of these alleged drone activities and the resulting claims and counter-claims.