Hajj 2025 flights from Srinagar Airport to resume on May 14 following ceasefire

In a significant development for pilgrims and the region, Hajj 2025 flights from Srinagar International Airport are set to resume on Wednesday, May 14, after a six-day suspension due to heightened tensions between India and Pakistan.

The suspension, which began on May 7, was a result of escalating cross-border hostilities that led to the closure of 32 airports across northern and western India. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) lifted the flight restrictions on May 12, allowing civilian operations to recommence.

Shujaat Ahmad Qureshi, Executive Officer of the Jammu and Kashmir Haj Committee, confirmed that Hajj flights from Srinagar will restart as per the original schedule. "There will be three flights on May 14 and 15, while a new schedule will be announced for the seven flights that were cancelled," he stated.

This year, 3,622 pilgrims from Jammu and Kashmir and 242 from Ladakh are set to undertake the Hajj pilgrimage. The first batch of 178 pilgrims departed on May 4, but subsequent flights scheduled between May 7 and May 12 were cancelled due to the airport's closure.

SpiceJet has announced the resumption of its Hajj operations from Srinagar, operating two flights to Medina using wide-body Airbus A340 aircraft, each accommodating 324 passengers. The airline aims to facilitate the travel of approximately 15,500 Hajj pilgrims this year.

The National Conference (NC) has welcomed the resumption of Hajj flights, emphasizing the importance of ensuring that all pilgrims from the region can complete their pilgrimage without further delays. The party has urged authorities to increase the number of flights to accommodate the backlog caused by the suspension.

Passengers are advised to stay updated with their respective airlines regarding flight schedules and any potential changes. The situation remains dynamic, and travelers should remain informed about developments that may affect their plans.

The resumption of flight operations, particularly for Hajj pilgrims, signifies a positive step towards normalcy and provides relief to those embarking on this significant spiritual journey.