Srinagar Airport to shut on Mondays, Tuesdays from July to September for runway repairs

Srinagar: Srinagar International Airport will remain closed for passenger flight operations every Monday and Tuesday from July through September to facilitate major runway repair and resurfacing works, officials said Monday.

Airport Director Javed Anjum said flight operations will be suspended twice a week beginning July 1 under a scheduled maintenance programme.

Due to runway repair works, passenger flight operations will remain suspended every Monday and Tuesday during July, August and September, he said.

The revised plan replaces an earlier proposal to suspend operations on Saturdays and Sundays between Aug. 1 and Oct. 15.

The airport has been undergoing runway maintenance for several months, affecting operations, including the transportation of baggage for returning Haj pilgrims.

Earlier, a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) issued by the Indian Air Force restricted operations at the airport until July 31, limiting flight movements to between 8 a.m. and 5 p.m. to allow repair work.

Despite the restrictions, flight activity has remained largely stable, with the airport handling 35 to 40 arrivals daily. Airlines are operating according to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation-approved summer schedule.

Authorities have informed airlines about the revised closure plan, and carriers are expected to adjust their schedules during the three-month maintenance period.

Officials estimate that nearly 200,000 passengers could be affected by the weekly closures.