Kolkata Airport to Suspend Flights for 15 Hours Due to Cyclone Dana
Kolkata Airport to Suspend Flights for 15 Hours Due to Cyclone Dana
Flight operations at Kolkata Airport are set to be suspended from 6 PM today until 9 AM tomorrow in light of the impending impact of Cyclone Dana, as safety precautions are prioritized for passengers and airport infrastructure.
Kolkata Airport authorities have announced a suspension of all flight operations from 6 PM today until 9 AM tomorrow in anticipation of the impact from Cyclone Dana. The decision comes as safety measures are implemented for passengers, airline employees, and airport infrastructure amid forecasts of severe weather conditions.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) confirmed the suspension, citing predicted heavy winds and rainfall affecting the coastal region of West Bengal, including Kolkata. An AAI spokesperson stated, “In view of Cyclone Dana’s impact, we have decided to halt flight operations during this critical period to ensure safety.”
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), wind speeds in Kolkata could reach between 60 to 70 km/h, with gusts potentially hitting 80 km/h. The cyclone is expected to make landfall between Bhitarkanika National Park and Dhamra Port in Odisha early Friday morning, with maximum speeds anticipated to be around 120 km/h.
Kolkata Airport Director Dr. Pravat Ranjan Beuria indicated that this collaborative decision was made after consulting with various stakeholders, including Air Traffic Control (ATC) and the airport operators committee. He noted, “We are expecting severe crosswinds during the storm, making takeoffs and landings extremely difficult.”
On average, Kolkata Airport handles over 400 flights daily, making the suspension a significant disruption for travelers. Passengers are advised to stay updated on their flight statuses and make alternate arrangements as necessary.
In addition to the flight cancellations, heavy rainfall is expected to complicate operations further, with potential shutdowns of navigational aids due to high wind speeds.
