In a significant development that has attracted regional and global attention, India has announced the temporary closure of its airspace over the Andaman Sea for a two-day period, from May 23 to May 24. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM), alerting commercial and military aviation authorities of planned air activity in the region.
This airspace restriction, while routine in military operations, is being closely watched due to its strategic timing and geographical location. The Andaman and Nicobar Islands, situated near key international sea lanes in the eastern Indian Ocean, hold considerable importance for India’s defense and maritime interests. The closure is speculated to be related to a scheduled military drill, potentially involving the Indian Air Force (IAF) or joint exercises with strategic allies.
According to defense analysts, the NOTAM issued designates an area over the Andaman Sea, east of the Nicobar Islands, as restricted airspace. The area is marked “dangerous for flight operations” due to high-altitude activity, possibly including missile testing or air defense maneuvers. While the Indian government has not released detailed information about the specific nature of the operation, sources within the defense establishment have hinted at the possibility of missile trials or live-fire air exercises.
India’s move comes amidst increasing geopolitical activity in the Indo-Pacific region. The Andaman and Nicobar Command, India’s only tri-service command, has been at the forefront of enhancing the country’s maritime domain awareness. As part of its broader security strategy, India has been conducting regular naval and air exercises in the area to bolster readiness and deter any threats to its territorial integrity.
This airspace closure also aligns with India’s expanding role in regional security collaborations. In recent years, the nation has deepened defense cooperation with countries like the United States, Japan, Australia, and France, especially in the Indo-Pacific. Observers suggest that the upcoming military activity may involve surveillance aircraft or strategic assets being tested in coordination with these partners.
Civilian air traffic will be temporarily rerouted during the 48-hour window, but authorities have assured minimal disruption to commercial flight paths. Airlines operating routes through Southeast Asia have been informed in advance to plan alternative flight corridors.
Experts note that such airspace closures are indicative of India’s commitment to maintaining a strong defense posture in strategically vital maritime zones. While routine in nature, these operations serve both as a demonstration of military capability and as a deterrent to potential regional adversaries.
Conclusion:
The temporary closure of airspace over the Andaman Sea on May 23–24 signifies India’s proactive defense preparedness and strategic interest in the Indo-Pacific. While details remain classified, the move underscores the growing significance of the Andaman and Nicobar region in India’s military and geopolitical calculus.
