Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) experienced severe flight disruptions on Thursday as poor visibility caused by adverse weather led to numerous delays, cancellations, and diversions. The foggy conditions left passengers stranded and created widespread confusion at Nepal’s busiest airport.

International Flights Diverted and Delayed

Many international flights were impacted, with one of the most notable incidents involving a Qatar Airways flight from Doha that was unable to land in Kathmandu due to the dense fog. The aircraft was diverted to Kolkata, India, forcing passengers to await further instructions.

Other airlines faced similar challenges. Nepal Airlines had to reroute a flight from Malaysia, while Air China and Sichuan Airlines also struggled with visibility issues, leading to diversions and cancellations.

Domestic Flights Severely Affected

Domestic routes were equally impacted, with key flights between Kathmandu and destinations like Pokhara, Bharatpur, Nepalgunj, Rajbiraj, Biratnagar, Janakpur, Bhadrapur, and Bhairahawa either delayed or canceled. Passengers were left stranded at the airport, many unaware of the disruptions before their arrival.

Despite TIA officials urging travelers to check flight statuses beforehand, many passengers arrived at the airport without prior knowledge of the delays, leading to frustration and confusion.

Private Airlines Also Hit by Bad Weather

The impact extended beyond major carriers, with smaller private airlines experiencing significant delays and cancellations. The backlog of affected flights created a ripple effect, making it difficult for passengers to receive timely updates and rebooking options.

Efforts to Resume Normal Operations

Airport officials worked to manage the situation, and as visibility improved in the afternoon, operations gradually returned to normal. Most delayed flights were either rescheduled or given priority for departure. However, authorities warned that weather conditions could shift again, potentially causing further disruptions.

Nepal’s Aviation Industry and Weather Challenges

Thursday’s disruptions highlight Nepal’s ongoing aviation challenges. The country’s mountainous terrain and unpredictable weather frequently impact air travel, particularly during monsoon and winter months. Pilots and air traffic controllers rely heavily on clear visibility for safe landings and takeoffs, making adverse weather a significant hurdle.

Infrastructure Improvements and Future Challenges

As Nepal’s tourism sector continues to grow, ensuring reliable air travel is increasingly crucial. While government and airport authorities are working on infrastructure improvements, incidents like these underscore the need for further advancements in navigation systems and contingency planning to mitigate weather-related disruptions.

Passenger Reactions and Frustration

Many stranded travelers took to social media to express their frustration, with complaints about long wait times and a lack of communication from airlines. Despite the inconvenience, most passengers acknowledged that weather conditions were beyond control and appreciated the airport staff’s efforts to manage the crisis.

Lessons for Travelers: Stay Updated and Plan Ahead

This incident serves as a strong reminder for travelers to regularly check flight statuses, particularly during unpredictable weather conditions. While Nepal’s aviation sector is improving, weather remains a persistent challenge affecting operations. Passengers are advised to remain informed and prepared for unexpected delays.

By the afternoon, flights had resumed, but with the possibility of further disruptions, officials urged travelers to stay alert and plan their journeys accordingly.

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