What is the story about?
Srinagar International Airport is proposing to shut all its flight operations for 15 days starting October 1, and also impose repeated weekly closures from July to September as part of a long runway upgradation programme.
The proposed two-week shutdown directly clashes with the Durga Pooja holiday season, dealing a significant blow to Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism sector. The shutdown is also expected to disrupt medical travel, forcing patients from Kashmir to undertake longer road journeys to access specialised treatment in metro cities.
Also Read: Dudhsagar to Chitrakote: 6 breathtaking waterfalls to explore this monsoonKey information you should know
Kashmir’s autumn season (between September and October) is generally one of the most popular tourism periods. Weather conditions during this time are typically pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C, and relatively low rainfall compared to the summer months. Flight availability may be reduced, and fares may increase on operating days.
How to reach Srinagar if flights are affected
For travellers unable to fly directly into Srinagar, rail and road connectivity are alternatives. Srinagar can be accessed through the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) and National Highway 44, the main road route connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India.
Also Read: 10 must-visit places in India that look magical during the monsoon
Passenger
Advisory from Srinagar Airport ✈️
As part of the planned runway maintenance works by the Indian Air Force, it is proposed that the runway at Srinagar Airport may remain unavailable on every Monday and Tuesday from 01 July 2026 to 30 September 2026.
Further, a total… pic.twitter.com/KZpVLKurwt
— Srinagar Airport (@SrinagarAirport) June 2, 2026
The proposed two-week shutdown directly clashes with the Durga Pooja holiday season, dealing a significant blow to Jammu and Kashmir’s tourism sector. The shutdown is also expected to disrupt medical travel, forcing patients from Kashmir to undertake longer road journeys to access specialised treatment in metro cities.
Also Read: Dudhsagar to Chitrakote: 6 breathtaking waterfalls to explore this monsoonKey information you should know
- Between July and October, the runway will likely be closed for two days of the week, likely Monday and Tuesday, which could lead to flight cancellations.
- From October 1-16, a full runway shutdown is proposed; regular flight operations would be suspended during that period. Travellers can verify the final NOTAM and airlines' schedules closer to the date
Kashmir’s autumn season (between September and October) is generally one of the most popular tourism periods. Weather conditions during this time are typically pleasant, with daytime temperatures ranging between 15°C and 25°C, and relatively low rainfall compared to the summer months. Flight availability may be reduced, and fares may increase on operating days.
How to reach Srinagar if flights are affected
For travellers unable to fly directly into Srinagar, rail and road connectivity are alternatives. Srinagar can be accessed through the Udhampur–Srinagar–Baramulla Rail Link (USBRL) and National Highway 44, the main road route connecting the Kashmir Valley with the rest of India.
Also Read: 10 must-visit places in India that look magical during the monsoon
