India has suspended civilian flights at 24 airports in its northern region following a deadly escalation of conflict with neighboring Pakistan, both nuclear-armed nations.

The suspension comes after India launched air strikes on Wednesday targeting what it called “terrorist camps” in Pakistan, triggering the worst military confrontation between the two countries in decades. Nearly 50 people, mostly in Pakistan, have been killed in the ensuing violence.

The Indian government announced late Thursday that civilian operations at 24 airports, including Jodhpur, Ludhiana, and Amritsar near the western border, have been halted. Major airlines like Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet have canceled more than 100 flights since the strikes began.

According to local media, the suspension of flights may be lifted by Saturday morning.

In response to heightened tensions, Indian airlines have advised passengers to arrive at least three hours before departure due to increased security protocols issued by the government.

The latest escalation began two weeks after India accused Pakistan of supporting an attack on tourists in Indian-administered Kashmir — a claim Pakistan has denied. Since then, both sides have exchanged artillery fire, missiles, and surveillance drones across the disputed border.

The flare-up has raised international concerns over the possibility of a broader conflict between the two longtime adversaries.