The airspace over Andaman and Nicobar Islands has been closed for May 23 and May 24, 2025, due to a planned missile test. A Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) was issued on May 16, restricting civilian aircraft from flying over the region during specific hours. The closure affects nine international flight routes, with no alternative paths provided. The restricted zone covers an area with a maximum corridor length of 500 kilometers, and flights are prohibited between 7 AM and 10 AM IST on both days.
Officials have confirmed that a high-altitude weapon test was successfully conducted on May 23, with another similar test scheduled for May 24. The Andaman and Nicobar Command (ANC), India’s only tri-services military command, is overseeing the operation. While the exact nature of the missile test has not been disclosed, past tests in the region have included BrahMos supersonic missile trials and air-launched ballistic missile tests. The closure of airspace for such tests is a routine practice, ensuring safety and precision in military operations.
The Andaman and Nicobar Islands have been a strategic location for India’s defense testing, with previous missile trials conducted in January 2025 and April 2024. The latest test underscores India’s ongoing efforts to enhance its missile capabilities and defense preparedness. While civilian flights are temporarily affected, authorities have assured that normal operations will resume after the test concludes.