A major security scare gripped Sri Guru Ramdas Ji International Airport in Amritsar, Punjab, after unidentified flying objects were spotted hovering near the runway. The incident unfolded on Sunday night at approximately 10 PM when two to four suspicious drones were observed drifting within the operational zone of the airfield. Prompted by the sudden aerial activity over the sensitive perimeter, air traffic control issued an immediate alert to manage the situation.
Diversion of Scheduled Flights
Prioritizing passenger safety, authorities were forced to alter the routes of seven incoming flights heading toward Amritsar. Several incoming aircraft were redirected to alternate destinations including Delhi and Chandigarh, while two Air India services traveling from Delhi to Amritsar were recalled to their origin. Preliminary observations indicated that the suspected drone-like objects approached the aviation facility from the direction of Rajala village, lingering over the protected zone and runway surroundings for a notable duration.
List of Affected Aircraft
The operational disruption directly impacted multiple scheduled services, notably Malaysia Airlines flight MH-118 traveling from Kuala Lumpur to Amritsar, which was redirected to Delhi. Domestic connections including IndiGo flight 6E-5028 from Mumbai and 6E-2045 from Delhi were diverted toward Chandigarh. Air India services AI-479 and AI-855 originating from Delhi were instructed to turn back. Additionally, international arrivals comprising IndiGo flight 6E-1428 from Sharjah and Air India Express flight IX-138 were also rerouted to Delhi.
Security Agencies Investigate the Breach
The appearance of unmanned aerial vehicles near the highly guarded operational zone has placed local security apparatus on high alert. At present, official details regarding the exact identity of the drones, their operators, and the precise motives behind their presence near the aviation hub remain undetermined. Authorities continue to monitor the situation while maintaining strict control over regional air traffic to ensure comprehensive safety.
