Srinagar Airport faces shutdown amid first major snowfall of the season, airlines issue travel advisory
Flight operations at Srinagar International Airport were disrupted on Saturday due to adverse weather conditions, as the season’s first major snowfall blanketed the region.
Both arrivals and departures have been put on standby, with officials set to decide on resuming operations, depending on weather improvements. Passengers have been advised to confirm their flight status before heading to the airport.
Heavy snowfall and dense fog have rendered conditions unsafe for air traffic. Snow accumulation on the runway and reduced visibility were cited as the primary reasons for grounding flights. “Ensuring the safety of passengers and crew is our top priority. We are making every effort to clear the runway, but flight operations remain dependent on the prevailing weather conditions,” said an airport official. The delays have left many passengers stranded at the airport.
All flights at Srinagar Airport have been cancelled, informed the airport. “Due to bad weather conditions, all flights at Srinagar Airport have been cancelled. Passengers are advised to contact their airlines for updates. We regret the inconvenience and appreciate your understanding,” read the Srinagar Airport post on X.
IndiGo announced on X that all flights to Kashmir have been cancelled due to adverse weather conditions in Srinagar, which have forced a temporary runway closure at Srinagar Airport.
“The weather in Srinagar has taken a turn, leading to a temporary runway closure at Srinagar Airport. Unfortunately, this requires us to cancel flights once again,” the IndiGo post read on X.
The closure of Srinagar Airport on Friday due to heavy snowfall and poor visibility disrupted travel plans, leading to the cancellation of all flights to and from the city. Passengers are urged to remain updated on further developments as airport authorities continue efforts to restore normalcy while prioritizing safety.
The snowfall has disrupted flights and affected road travel. The Srinagar-Jammu National Highway remains partially closed due to icy conditions, causing further inconvenience to travellers. Authorities have urged caution and advised travellers to stay updated on road conditions before setting out
More Snow Ahead
The Meteorological Department has forecast continued snowfall over the next 24 hours, particularly in higher-altitude areas. This could lead to further disruptions in flight schedules and road connectivity. Travelers are encouraged to stay in touch with airlines and plan for potential alternate travel arrangements. While the snowfall has caused logistical issues, it has also enhanced the region’s winter charm, drawing tourists to witness Kashmir’s picturesque landscapes. However, the authorities are working to balance safety concerns with ensuring that visitors can enjoy their time in the Valley.
As the day progresses, airport officials will monitor the weather closely to make decisions regarding flight resumption, offering a glimmer of hope for stranded passengers and eager tourists.