Tourism – Srinagar Airport Closure Plan Raises Concerns During Peak Travel Season
Tourism – Jammu and Kashmir Chief Minister Omar Abdullah has urged the Centre to reconsider the timing of planned maintenance work at Srinagar Airport, warning that extended disruptions to flight services could affect tourism, business activity, and daily travel across the Union Territory.
Chief Minister Raises Issue With Union Ministers
During a visit to New Delhi, Omar Abdullah held separate meetings with Defence Minister Rajnath Singh and Civil Aviation Minister Kinjarapu Rammohan Naidu to discuss the proposed runway maintenance schedule at Srinagar Airport. He highlighted the need to preserve uninterrupted air access to Jammu and Kashmir, particularly during October when tourist arrivals traditionally remain high.
The Chief Minister acknowledged that runway resurfacing and repair work are necessary to maintain aviation safety standards. However, he expressed concern that the final stage of the project is scheduled during one of the busiest periods for the tourism industry in the Valley.
Planned Maintenance Schedule Announced
As per the advisory issued by Srinagar Airport authorities, the runway is expected to remain unavailable on every Monday and Tuesday from July 1 to September 30, 2026. These temporary closures form part of a maintenance programme being carried out under the supervision of the Indian Air Force.
In addition, airport authorities have proposed a complete suspension of runway operations from October 1 to October 16, 2026, to facilitate major repair and resurfacing activities.
Impact on Tourism and Local Economy
Omar Abdullah informed the Union ministers that flight operations to Srinagar have already faced restrictions since April because of earlier phases of the runway improvement project. He cautioned that a full closure during the first half of October could create significant challenges for sectors heavily dependent on tourism.
According to the Chief Minister, industries such as hospitality, transportation, handicrafts, and other tourism-linked businesses could face setbacks if visitors are unable to travel conveniently to the region. He noted that thousands of livelihoods across Jammu and Kashmir rely directly or indirectly on tourism-related activities.
The Chief Minister also pointed out that widespread flight cancellations and travel disruptions could inconvenience both residents and visitors while affecting commercial activity during a critical season for the local economy.
Requests for Alternative Arrangements
During discussions with the Defence Minister, Omar Abdullah requested that the Indian Air Force examine whether the final phase of runway work could be shortened or implemented in stages without compromising operational safety.
He further suggested that if a complete shutdown becomes unavoidable, authorities should consider allowing limited civilian flight services through the Awantipora Air Base. Such an arrangement, he said, would help maintain essential air connectivity for the region during the closure period.
In his meeting with the Civil Aviation Minister, the Chief Minister sought support for reviewing the timing of the final maintenance phase. He proposed exploring options such as rescheduling the closure, reducing its duration, or carrying out the work in phases during a less busy travel period.
Industry Stakeholders Voice Concerns
Representatives of the tourism sector have also expressed concern over the planned restrictions. Industry stakeholders believe that the combination of twice-weekly flight disruptions over three months and a continuous closure in October could negatively affect tourist arrivals.
Sajad Ahmad Kralyari, Secretary General of the Travel Agents Association of Kashmir (TAAK), stated that the tourism industry has witnessed a strong revival, with visitor numbers increasing significantly. He noted that accommodation facilities in destinations such as Srinagar and Gulmarg are experiencing full occupancy levels during the current season.
According to tourism operators, maintaining reliable air connectivity is essential for sustaining the sector’s recovery. They have urged authorities to develop alternative transportation and aviation arrangements to ensure that visitor movement and economic activity continue smoothly while maintenance work is carried out.