Delhi Airspace Shutdown for Republic Day Rehearsals to Disrupt 600+ Flights
Passengers traveling through North India already face flight delays and cancellations due to winter fog and cold waves. Now, air travelers using Delhi will experience another round of disruptions starting January 21. The national capital's airspace will temporarily close for Republic Day rehearsals and security protocols.
Airspace Closure Schedule Details
Delhi airspace will remain shut daily from 10:20 AM to 12:45 PM for six days beginning January 21. A government Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) confirms this schedule. The daily closure lasts two hours and twenty-five minutes. This period overlaps with one of the busiest hours at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA). Travel disruption is likely as a result.
Reason Behind the Airspace Restriction
The closure facilitates rehearsals for the Republic Day parade. These rehearsals involve aerial flypast exercises, defense displays, and cultural processions along Kartavya Path. Authorities also consider area closures necessary to secure planes used during the event. This practice repeats every year before Republic Day, which India celebrates on January 26.
More Than 600 Flights to Face Disruption
Aviation analytics firm Cirium estimates over 600 flights could face disruption during the six-day period. This timeframe usually experiences heavy air traffic. Passengers from across India connect to afternoon long-haul flights to Europe and onward domestic destinations during these hours.
Experts say disturbances in this small window can create a ripple effect. Delays may spread to various routes. Airlines have only eight days to reschedule flights, handle missed connections, process refunds, and reroute passengers. These tasks prove expensive and operationally complicated for a busy hub like Delhi.
While many affected flights may not cancel outright, several will change departure or arrival times. Airlines will attempt to rebook passengers on alternate flights.
Fog Season Intensifies the Challenge
These closures coincide with Delhi's peak fog season. Persistent low visibility has already caused weeks of disruptions during early morning and late-night operations. A day of particularly dense fog could further shorten usable airspace hours. This situation puts additional pressure on airlines, air traffic controllers, and passengers.
What Travelers Should Do
Thousands of passengers will face daily effects through flight delays, rescheduled services, and missed connections. Airlines will contact affected passengers directly. However, passengers should monitor flight information regularly when traveling through Delhi.
With Republic Day rehearsals, tightened security, and winter fog all coinciding, January travel through Delhi may once again test the patience and flexibility of both airlines and passengers.
