As per reports, ahead of Republic Day celebrations, airspace restrictions will be implemented in the national capital from January 19 to 29. The Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), which handles around 1,300 flights daily, has announced a temporary suspension of flight operations during specific hours. If reports are to go by, no flights will arrive or depart between 10:20 AM and 12:45 PM throughout this period.

Reports also state that non-scheduled and chartered flights will face stricter restrictions, with no landings or take-offs allowed between 10 AM and 1:15 PM from January 19 to January 25. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has issued a revised Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) updating the flight restrictions. Initially applicable only to non-scheduled flights with specific exceptions, the updated NOTAM now bans both scheduled airline operations and chartered non-scheduled flights on the aforementioned days.

It is important to note that the NOTAM does not impact the operations of the Indian Air Force (IAF), Border Security Force (BSF), Army aviation helicopters, or state-owned aircraft/helicopters transporting the Governor or Chief Minister of a state.

Preparations for Republic Day celebrations are in full swing in the national capital, with dress rehearsals already underway. The Delhi Police has released traffic advisories for several key locations during specific hours. For instance, traffic movement will be restricted at Kartavya Path-Rafi Marg Crossing, Kartavya Path-Janpath Crossing, Kartavya Path-Mansingh Road Crossing, and Kartavya Path-C Hexagon from 10:15 AM to 12:30 PM on designated days.

The Kartavya Path stretch between India Gate and Vijay Chowk will remain inaccessible during the Republic Day celebrations and rehearsals. Commuters are urged to stay updated with real-time traffic information to plan their routes efficiently and avoid delays. With all these traffic restrictions, one can also expect rush at metro stations near key venues. To avoid getting stuck in long queues due to heavy footfall, the Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has advised passengers to plan their travel well in advance.

The 75th Republic Day celebrations at Kartavya Path on January 26 is expected to be a grand affair, featuring the President's ceremonial arrival, the hoisting of the national flag, and a 21-gun salute to mark the occasion. French President Emmanuel Macron will grace the event as the chief guest