IAF to Hold Week-Long Air Exercise Over Uttarakhand Near LAC; NOTAM Issued for November 13–21
Why It MattersTemporary military airspace restrictions over northern India can force commercial and business operators to reroute or retime flights, so exercise-driven NOTAMs are a recurring scheduling risk for Himalayan-region operations.
The Indian Air Force is set to conduct a week-long high-intensity air exercise over Uttarakhand, in the Middle Sector of the Line of Actual Control (LAC) along the Central Himalayas. A NOTAM restricting airspace in the region has been issued for November 13 to 21.
According to officials, frontline fighter aircraft of the Indian Air Force will take part. The exercise is designed to test operational agility, Beyond Visual Range (BVR) combat tactics and high-altitude engine performance in demanding Himalayan terrain. Operating over Central Uttarakhand also provides a platform to validate tactical operations at critical Advanced Landing Grounds, rapid force projection, inter-valley troop transfers and air logistics support. The Middle Sector has seen a steady build-up of infrastructure, forward airbase enhancements and surveillance networks in recent years.
The designated exercise zones will disrupt regular civil aviation routes. Commercial flight operators have been advised to liaise with the IAF in advance to adjust schedules and minimise operational delays.
