Operation Sindoor: Enhanced Security Measures at Chennai Airport Prompt Passenger Advisory

Operation Sindoor: Chennai Airport Boosts Security, Passengers Urged to Arrive Early

In response to heightened national security concerns under Operation Sindoor, Chennai International Airport has significantly tightened its security protocols following an advisory from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS). As part of the newly implemented measures, air travelers are strongly advised to reach the airport at least three hours before their flight, with check-in counters closing 75 minutes before departure.

These changes are aimed at ensuring passenger safety and aviation security, especially in light of increased airspace tensions and regional defense activities.

Stricter Passenger Screening and Security Protocols

According to officials from the Airports Authority of India (AAI), the airport is now operating under enhanced alert. One of the key implementations is the Secondary Ladder Point Check (SLPC), which involves an additional screening of passengers just before boarding the aircraft.

“Security is being strengthened at every level, including boarding gates, terminals, and runways,” said an AAI source.

In addition, visitor access inside terminals has been suspended, and surveillance systems are being monitored 24/7. The CISF (Central Industrial Security Force) has deployed additional troops at key checkpoints, ensuring a comprehensive security grid across the airport.

Flight Cancellations to Sensitive Locations

Due to restricted airspace and operational constraints, several flights to sensitive destinations like Chandigarh and Hindon have been cancelled in recent days. This move follows precautionary airspace alerts and the strategic reallocation of air corridors.

Airlines including Air India, IndiGo, and Akasa Air have released travel advisories urging passengers to check their flight status well in advance and to prepare for possible delays or cancellations.

Full-Scale Emergency Drill Conducted

In a parallel effort to enhance preparedness, the Airport Emergency Preparedness Drill was carried out at Chennai Airport. The exercise was conducted to evaluate and improve the Airport Emergency Operational Plan (AEOP).

Multiple stakeholders participated, including:

• Tamil Nadu State Police

• NDRF (National Disaster Response Force)

• State Fire Brigade

• CISF

• Airlines and Ground Handling Agencies

• Local Hospitals and Ambulance Services

“Coordination between all emergency services is vital. These drills prepare us for potential threats and help ensure that response time is minimized in any crisis,” said a senior official involved in the drill.

Passenger Guidelines During Operation Sindoor

As security remains a top priority, authorities have issued the following instructions for all travelers using Chennai airport during this period:

1. Arrive at the terminal a minimum of 3 hours before departure.

2. Complete check-in and baggage drop before the 75-minute cut-off.

3. Cooperate with security teams during additional screenings.

4. Avoid carrying restricted items and keep all documents ready for inspection.

5. Stay connected with your airline for live updates and changes in flight schedules.

Why Operation Sindoor Matters

Operation Sindoor is believed to be a coordinated national security initiative following cross-border tensions and intelligence inputs of potential aerial threats. The name, though not officially detailed, is part of a broader defense readiness operation seen across various high-risk zones in India.

Chennai, being one of the country’s busiest international airports, plays a critical role in air defense and passenger transit, making it a key location for heightened security deployment.

The ongoing security operation at Chennai Airport is a proactive step toward maintaining national and civilian safety amid increasing regional instability. While the stricter protocols may cause some inconvenience, they are necessary for safeguarding passengers and air traffic operations.

As Operation Sindoor continues, passengers are advised to remain alert, follow official guidance, and cooperate fully with security officials. These measures may evolve depending on further intelligence and operational needs.