Drone Alert Around Amritsar Airport Days After Seven Flights Were Diverted

Amritsar Police have issued a fresh alert over drone activity around Sri Guru Ram Das Ji International Airport, days after suspected drone movement disrupted flight operations and led to the diversion of seven flights. Five flights were diverted to Delhi and two to Chandigarh after drone-like objects were detected near the airport earlier this week. Flight operations were also suspended for around 90 minutes while security agencies assessed the situation.

The latest alert covers villages located around the airport, with authorities designating an area within a three-kilometre radius as a Red Zone. The area extending up to five kilometres from the airport has been placed under a Yellow Alert. The restrictions are aimed at preventing unauthorised drone operations in the vicinity of the airport, where such activity can create security concerns and interfere with aircraft movement.

Police have made it clear that drones cannot be flown within the restricted area without prior permission. Organisers planning weddings, sporting events or other functions where drones may be used have been asked to inform the police and district administration in writing beforehand. DSP Raja Sansi Jagbir Singh Aulakh has urged residents to strictly follow the restrictions and cooperate with authorities amid the heightened security measures.

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Police are also using local outreach measures to ensure residents understand the restrictions. Announcements are being made at gurdwaras in villages near the airport to sensitise people about the risks associated with unauthorised drone flights. The move is intended to reach residents directly and discourage the use of drones for photography, event coverage or other routine purposes without the required permission.

The heightened vigilance follows concerns that even drones used for seemingly ordinary activities can create significant security issues near an operational airport. Unauthorised drone activity can prompt authorities to temporarily restrict flight operations while the objects are identified and assessed. The recent diversions have underscored the potential disruption that such incidents can cause to passengers, airlines and airport operations.

Authorities are now increasing monitoring around the airport and surrounding villages to prevent a repeat of the disruption. The Red and Yellow Zone classifications provide a framework for tighter control of drone activity based on proximity to the airport. Police have urged residents and event organisers to comply with the restrictions and obtain the necessary permissions before operating drones in the designated areas.

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