Delhi Airport to Halt Flight Operations Daily for Republic Day Rehearsals from Jan 21-26

Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport will temporarily halt flight operations daily for two-and-a-half hours from January 21 to January 26. This shutdown, from 10:20 AM to 12:45 PM, is due to heightened security measures and rehearsals for the Republic Day parade, involving aerial flypast exercises. A government-issued NOTAM confirms the move, which is expected to affect over 600 flights and thousands of passengers, compounding existing issues from dense fog.

Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in Delhi will implement a temporary suspension of flight operations for two-and-a-half hours daily, from January 21 to January 26, 2026. This strategic closure, occurring between 10:20 AM and 12:45 PM each day, is a critical component of enhanced security protocols for India's upcoming Republic Day celebrations on January 26. The primary purpose is to facilitate rehearsals for the Republic Day parade, which includes intricate aerial flypast exercises, defense displays, and cultural processions. A government-issued Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) officially confirmed these operational adjustments, indicating a significant impact on air travel. Aviation analytics firm Cirium estimates that over 600 flights could be affected during this period, consequently disrupting the travel plans of thousands of passengers. This measure also coincides with ongoing challenges at Delhi airport, where dense fog and severe cold conditions have already been causing frequent flight delays and cancellations, further complicating air travel for commuters.