BRICS Summit 2026 is bringing tighter security to Delhi’s airspace, but Indira Gandhi International Airport will remain open for regular commercial flights. Officials have announced special airspace restrictions from September 11 to September 13 as New Delhi hosts the summit. The measures affect flying activities within a 300-kilometer radius of the capital.
What the restrictions actually mean for passengers
Passengers often assume a security clampdown means the airport shuts down. This time, scheduled airline flights will continue to take off and land during the restriction period. The advisory allows these regular commercial operations to proceed without interruption. Passengers should not interpret the security measures as a blanket suspension of service.
Special flights carrying BRICS dignitaries and associated movements will also be permitted, provided they receive advance approval from air traffic control. These flights are treated as scheduled movements under the advisory. The rules tighten access primarily for aircraft and flying operations that do not fall under the permitted categories. The gathering is being held at Bharat Mandapam, with an extensive security operation in place across the capital.
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Delhi is already facing extensive traffic restrictions, diversions, and temporary stoppages linked to VVIP movement during the summit. A flight might be operating on schedule, but a passenger could still face delays reaching the terminal because of road closures or diversions. For most airline passengers, the bigger challenge may not be whether their flight can take off or land, but getting to the airport on time.
Airspace rules and flight paths
Height restrictions apply to the broader 300-kilometer zone around Delhi. Regular scheduled flights and overflights can continue on their normal routes, but they must comply with specified altitude requirements while approaching or departing the area. Aircraft climbing near the zone must reach Flight Level 290 — around 29,000 feet — by the time they are 200 kilometers from Delhi.
Similarly, aircraft descending must not begin descending from Flight Level 290 until they are at least 200 kilometers away from the capital. The rules are designed to allow scheduled airline operations and overflights to continue while tightening the security framework around the summit. This approach balances the need for security with the requirement to keep air travel moving.
According to the advisory, flights operated by the Indian Air Force, Border Security Force, and Aviation Research Centre are permitted. Army helicopters undertaking quick-response operations or emergency medical evacuation missions will also be allowed. State government aircraft and helicopters carrying a Governor or Chief Minister are among the exempted categories as well.
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Any flight not included in the permitted list will require prior security clearance from the Ministry of Home Affairs. Safdarjung Airport will remain closed during the security period, except for specified IAF helicopters undertaking emergency or VIP duties and certain BSF and IAF helicopter operations connected with the National Security Guard. Rohini Helipad will remain fully closed.
Planning your journey to the airport
Publicly reported restrictions have also placed limits on other forms of flying activity, including certain light aircraft and unmanned aerial operations around Delhi during the high-security period. These measures add to a broader aviation security plan for the summit. Travelers should check their airline’s latest flight status before leaving, allow substantially more time than usual for the journey, and monitor official Delhi Traffic Police and airport advisories.
The message for passengers is relatively straightforward: commercial flights are permitted to operate, but the summit security operation means both the journey to the airport and movement through Delhi could require considerably more planning than usual. Passengers should prepare for delays in reaching the terminal and remain flexible with their schedules. It is also essential for travelers to stay informed about the latest traffic and flight updates to minimize disruptions to their travel plans, ensuring a smooth and hassle-free journey to their destination.
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