Lockdown: All domestic, international flights suspended till May 17

As the central government’s decision to extend the lockdown has been declared, it was certain that the proposed relaxation for aviation sector could not be implemented. Now union ministry of civil aviation has cleared this fact and said that they have suspended all international and domestic flights in India till May 17.

“In view of the decision by the government to continue the lockdown up to 17th May, 2020, prohibiting domestic passenger flight operations, has been further extended up to 2359 hours IST on 17 May, 2020,” aviation regulator DGCA said.

However, it has also clarified that the restriction should not apply to international all-cargo operations and flights specifically approved by Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA).

“However, it is reiterated that foreign and domestic airlines shall be suitably informed about the opening of their operations whether international to/from India or domestic respectively in due course,” the DGCA circular said.
The first phase of the lockdown imposed in the country in view of the coronavirus outbreak was from March 25 to April 14.The second phase started on April 15 and will end on May 3. It further extended until May 17.

Being in lockdown since March 24, 650 aircraft have been stuck at different airports across the country.