Airports and airlines have warned passengers about enhanced security checks that could increase check-in, baggage screening, and security times.
Indian travellers flying to the UAE this week have been advised to arrive at airports earlier than usual as authorities introduce enhanced security measures ahead of India’s 80th Independence Day on August 15.
Several major Indian airports and airlines have warned passengers to expect longer processing times at security checkpoints and to allow extra time for traffic, parking, check-in and additional screening.
Indian Airports Step Up Security Checks
Delhi Airport said security measures have been strengthened and warned passengers that screening could take longer than usual.
Travellers were advised to plan their journeys and reach the airport early to avoid delays, particularly during peak travel periods.
Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport has issued a similar advisory. The airport said heightened security measures and mandatory checks will remain in place from August 10 to 20, 2026, as part of preparations for Independence Day.
Passengers have been asked to factor the additional screening into their travel plans and arrive well ahead of their scheduled departure.
Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala has also introduced additional mandatory checks across the airport. Passengers have been advised to arrive early, keep their travel documents accessible and allow extra time for security procedures.
Airlines Warn of Longer Processing Times
Indian airlines have also issued advisories as passenger volumes and security requirements increase.
Air India and SpiceJet advised passengers on Tuesday to reach airports early, while IndiGo issued a similar warning on Wednesday.
IndiGo said enhanced security checks could result in longer processing times at different airport checkpoints. The airline specifically asked passengers to allow additional time for traffic, parking, check-in queues and secondary checks.
Travellers have also been advised to keep their identification documents, boarding passes and other travel documents ready when approaching security.
Airlines are encouraging passengers to follow baggage rules carefully, as properly prepared baggage can help reduce delays during screening.
India Celebrates Its 80th Independence Day.
India will celebrate its 80th Independence Day on August 15, 2026, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi leading the national celebrations.
The heightened security arrangements are therefore expected to remain in place at airports during the period surrounding the national celebration.
For passengers travelling from India to the UAE, the additional checks do not necessarily mean flights will be delayed. However, longer airport processing times could make it more difficult for passengers who arrive close to their scheduled departure.
Travellers are therefore advised to allow sufficient time for the entire airport process, including reaching the terminal, parking, check-in, baggage drop and security screening.
Passengers should also check their airline’s latest flight information before leaving for the airport, particularly if they are travelling during busy periods.
With enhanced security measures continuing through the Independence Day period, arriving early and keeping travel documents readily available remain the simplest ways for India-UAE passengers to avoid unnecessary last-minute delays.
Source: KT
