Air travellers as Delhi’s airspace is set to remain closed temporarily,

Balasahana Suresh
✈️ Why delhi Airspace Is Being Closed

Delhi’s airspace will be temporarily closed daily from January 21 to January 26, 2026 — for about 2 hours 45 minutes each day (10:20 AM to 12:45 PM). This closure is due to Republic Day parade rehearsals, dress rehearsals, and the final celebrations, including aerial flypasts.

📆 When the Restrictions Apply

  • 📍 Dates: January 21 – January 26, 2026
  • ⏰ Time per day: ~10:20 AM to 12:45 PM
  • What’s happening: Airspace closures are needed for the National Republic Day events and rehearsals, not for operational issues at the airport.
💺 What It Means for Your Flight

If you’re flying to or from delhi (Indira gandhi international Airport) during these dates, expect:

  • ✈️ Delays: Flights scheduled around the closure hours might be delayed or rescheduled to avoid the airspace shutdown.
  • 🔄 Cancellations: Some flights may be cancelled, especially if airlines can’t re‑route around the restriction windows.
  • 🛫 Alternate flight timings: airlines will likely move affected flights earlier in the morning or later afternoon — but this depends on many factors, including other airport schedules and aircraft availability.
📍 Why Thousands of Flights Are Affected

The closure isn’t just a short break — over 600 flights are expected to be impacted during this period. Even flights not directly arriving or departing Delhi can be disrupted because aircraft routing and crew schedules are interconnected across the network.

📲 How to Handle This As a Traveller

Here’s what you must do if you’re flying around these dates:

Check Your Flight Status Online

Use your airline’s app or website to track the live status of your flight.

This is critical if your scheduled departure or arrival falls near the closure times.

Contact Your Airline

Confirm whether your flight is delayed, cancelled, or re‑timed due to the airspace closure.

Ask about rebooking or alternate flights if your schedule changes.

Plan Extra Time

Arrive at the airport earlier than usual in case of last‑minute changes.

During major closures like this, airport congestion can increase, especially at baggage drop and check‑in counters.

Stay Updated Through NOTAMs

Notices to Airmen (NOTAMs) are official advisories about closures/restrictions — airlines reference these when planning schedules, and so should you.

🧠 Quick Tip

Even if your flight isn’t directly to Delhi, plan ahead — closures at a major hub like delhi can ripple through the network and affect connecting services in other cities.

 

Disclaimer:

The views and opinions expressed in this article are those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of any agency, organization, employer, or company. All information provided is for general informational purposes only. While every effort has been made to ensure accuracy, we make no representations or warranties of any kind, express or implied, about the completeness, reliability, or suitability of the information contained herein. Readers are advised to verify facts and seek professional advice where necessary. Any reliance placed on such information is strictly at the reader’s own risk.

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