Srinagar Airport Halts All Flights as Snowfall Makes Runway Unsafe
Flight operations at Srinagar International Airport were completely suspended on Tuesday after continuous and heavy snowfall rendered the runway unsafe for aircraft operations, according to officials from the Airports Authority of India (AAI). The adverse weather conditions and persistent snowfall in the Kashmir Valley forced the cancellation of all arrivals and departures, prioritizing passenger safety above all else.
Runway Declared Unfit for Operations
An AAI official stated that the runway is currently not available for safe aircraft operations due to the accumulation of snow and slippery conditions. Flights will only resume once weather conditions improve significantly and the runway is thoroughly inspected and declared operational by authorities. This precautionary measure aims to prevent any potential accidents or incidents during takeoff or landing.
Massive Flight Cancellations Affect Travel Plans
A total of 58 flights were cancelled due to the snowfall, comprising 29 arrivals and 29 departures. This disruption has impacted numerous passengers, including hundreds of tourists who were returning home after spending the weekend and the Republic Day holiday in the picturesque Valley. The sudden suspension has left many stranded at the airport or in nearby accommodations, scrambling to make alternative arrangements.
Authorities Monitor Situation and Advise Passengers
Airport and airline authorities are closely monitoring the weather situation and runway conditions. Passengers have been strongly advised to:
- Stay in constant touch with their respective airlines for real-time updates on flight status.
- Check for information on rescheduled flights or alternative travel options.
- Avoid unnecessary travel to the airport until normal operations resume.
The AAI and local administration are working to clear the snow and ensure the runway meets safety standards as soon as possible. However, the resumption of flights is entirely dependent on weather improvements, which remain uncertain given the ongoing snowfall in the region.
