Hundreds of passengers from Kashmir, including several Umrah pilgrims, have been left stranded at airports after sudden airspace restrictions disrupted multiple international flights, causing delays and cancellations.
The situation has mainly affected passengers travelling from Srinagar International Airport, many of whom were scheduled to fly to Saudi Arabia to perform Umrah. Several flights connecting Kashmir to international destinations were either delayed or cancelled due to temporary airspace closures along key international routes.
Airport officials said the restrictions forced airlines to alter flight paths and suspend some services, creating widespread disruption for passengers. Many travellers had already reached the airport with confirmed tickets but were informed about delays only hours before their scheduled departures.
Among those affected were families and elderly pilgrims preparing to undertake the religious journey of Umrah in Mecca and Medina in Saudi Arabia. Several passengers expressed frustration over the uncertainty, as many had already completed travel formalities and were waiting at airports for further updates from airlines.
Airline authorities said the disruptions were caused by temporary airspace closures along certain regional corridors, which forced aircraft to reroute or suspend operations for safety reasons. Such restrictions often lead to longer travel times or cancellations when alternative routes are not immediately available.
Travel agents in Kashmir said a large number of pilgrims from the Valley travel for Umrah every year, especially during this period. The sudden disruption has therefore affected not only individual travellers but also group tours arranged through local agencies.
Many stranded passengers are now waiting for rescheduled flights, while airlines are working to accommodate them on the next available services. However, limited seat availability and operational adjustments have slowed the process.
Officials have advised passengers to remain in contact with airlines and travel agencies for updated flight schedules. Airport authorities have also urged travellers to verify flight status before leaving for the airport to avoid further inconvenience.
Despite the disruption, aviation authorities said efforts are underway to restore normal flight operations once the airspace restrictions are lifted and routes become fully operational again.
