A significant technical malfunction in the runway lighting system brought all air operations to a complete standstill at Nepal's primary international gateway on Saturday. The incident caused widespread disruption to both domestic and international flight schedules, leaving hundreds of passengers stranded and uncertain about their travel plans.
Complete Suspension of Flight Operations
Tribhuvan International Airport in Kathmandu experienced a total suspension of all flight activities due to a critical failure in its runway illumination system. The problem was first detected early in the day, prompting immediate safety measures that included halting both incoming and outgoing aircraft.
Airport authorities confirmed that the technical issue specifically affected the runway lights, which are essential for safe aircraft operations, particularly during early morning, evening, and adverse weather conditions. The glitch made it impossible for pilots to safely navigate takeoffs and landings, forcing the complete shutdown of the airport's operations.
Immediate Impact and Passenger Inconvenience
The sudden suspension created immediate chaos at the airport terminal, with confused and frustrated passengers gathering at information counters seeking updates about their flights. Travelers scheduled for both domestic destinations within Nepal and international routes found themselves facing indefinite delays.
Several airlines, including those operating flights to and from Indian cities like Delhi and Mumbai, were directly affected by the shutdown. Airport staff worked to manage the growing crowds while providing limited information about when normal operations might resume.
Technical Response and Resolution Efforts
Engineering teams were immediately deployed to identify and resolve the electrical or technical problem causing the runway light failure. Specialized technicians worked urgently to restore the essential lighting systems that ensure safe aircraft movement during all operational hours.
While airport officials assured the public that they were prioritizing a swift resolution, the complexity of airport lighting systems meant that repairs required careful attention to safety protocols. The incident highlights the critical infrastructure challenges that can affect aviation operations in the region.
This is not the first time technical issues have disrupted operations at South Asian airports, emphasizing the need for robust maintenance systems and contingency planning for such critical transportation hubs.
