New Delhi, September 11, 2026: Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport remains operational during the BRICS Summit, taking place from September 11 to 13. While scheduled commercial flights, including those to and from the Gulf (UAE, Saudi Arabia, Qatar, Kuwait, Bahrain, and Oman), are exempt from airspace restrictions, passengers should anticipate potential delays due to security arrangements. A Notice to Air Missions (NOTAM) issued by the Airports Authority of India restricts private charter and non-scheduled flight operations within a 300-kilometer radius of Delhi between 7:00 AM and 11:00 PM on September 11, 12, and 13. Regular commercial services, such as flights to Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Doha, Riyadh, Jeddah, Muscat, Kuwait, and Bahrain, are not subject to automatic cancellation.
Approximately 35 special aircraft are expected for the summit, with backup parking facilities arranged at Hindon, Jaipur, and Noida International Airport, and Lucknow serving as a standby location. Operational procedures include altitude restrictions, such as departing aircraft reaching Flight Level 290 within 200 kilometers and arriving flights beginning descent at or beyond 200 kilometers. Safdarjung Airport is closed for normal operations, and restrictions are in place at the Rohini Helipad.
Ground travel poses the most significant practical issue for passengers. Security measures and road diversions across Delhi may impact commute times.
Airlines like IndiGo have advised passengers to account for these diversions, recommending arrival at the airport at least three hours prior to departure for international flights. The Airport Express Metro is recommended as a reliable alternative to road transport. Passengers are urged to check their flight status via official airline apps or websites, verify terminal information, and ensure travel documents, including passports and residency permits for Gulf residents, are readily available. Those with onward domestic connections or separate PNRs are advised to allow extra buffer time for baggage handling and terminal transfers, as taxiing and ground movement may face increased pressure during the summit.
