As the nation gears up for Republic Day celebrations, airspace restrictions are scheduled to be in place in the national capital, affecting flight operations and travel plans. According to an official announcement, these restrictions will be enforced from January 19 to 25, with additional measures on January 26 and 29.
The primary focus of these restrictions is to ensure the smooth conduct of Republic Day events and the Beating the Retreat ceremony. The restrictions during January 19-25 will particularly impact non-scheduled flights of scheduled airlines and chartered flights, prohibiting take-offs or landings from 10 am to 1.15 pm each day.
The Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) outlines the specific details of these restrictions. During the mentioned period, from January 19 to 25, the curbs will be effective daily from 10 am to 1.15 pm. This means that non-scheduled flights of scheduled airlines and chartered flights will be barred from operating at the Delhi airport during these hours.
It’s important to note that scheduled flights are expected to continue their operations without disruptions. The impact on flight schedules is primarily directed towards non-scheduled and chartered flights, ensuring that the Republic Day preparations proceed seamlessly.
Moving forward, from January 26 to 29, the restrictions will be extended from 6 am to 9 pm each day. Republic Day, celebrated on January 26, will witness a complete suspension of flight operations from 6 am to 9 pm. This temporary halt in aviation activities is a critical component of security measures to facilitate the smooth conduct of the Republic Day parade and associated events.
Additionally, on January 29, the day of the Beating the Retreat ceremony, no flights will be permitted to take off or land at the Delhi airport from 6 am to 9 pm, as per the NOTAM guidelines.
It’s important to emphasize that these restrictions are crucial for maintaining the security and integrity of Republic Day celebrations. The Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), as the country’s largest airport, handles around 1,300 flights daily. Despite the temporary constraints, the scheduled flights of scheduled airline operators are expected to operate normally during these periods.
The NOTAM issued by the AAI ensures that there is no impact on essential aviation operations, including those conducted by the Indian Air Force (IAF), Border Security Force (BSF), Army aviation helicopters, and state-owned aircraft and helicopters flying with the Governor or Chief Minister of a state. These exemptions are crucial to facilitating necessary government and security operations during the specified periods.
As travelers plan their journeys around these dates, it’s advisable to stay informed about the airspace restrictions and plan accordingly. While scheduled flights are not significantly affected, those relying on non-scheduled or chartered flights during the specified hours should consider alternative arrangements or adjust their travel plans to accommodate the temporary curbs.
These airspace restrictions are a temporary but essential aspect of ensuring the safety and success of Republic Day celebrations in Delhi. The coordination between aviation authorities, security agencies, and relevant stakeholders aims to strike a balance between national security measures and maintaining essential air travel operations during this significant period.
