Airport: Snowfall Forces Widespread Flight Cancellations at Srinagar International
Airport: Heavy snowfall across Kashmir disrupted air traffic on Tuesday, prompting airlines to cancel a large number of flights to and from Srinagar International Airport. Airport officials said persistent adverse weather conditions made it unsafe for regular operations, leading to significant inconvenience for passengers, including hundreds of tourists preparing to leave the Valley after the long weekend.
Weather Conditions Disrupt Airport Operations
Officials from the Airport Authority of India confirmed that ongoing snowfall at Srinagar Airport was the primary reason behind the cancellations. With visibility reduced and the runway affected by snow accumulation, airlines opted to suspend most scheduled services for the day. Authorities said the decision was taken in coordination with airline operators to ensure passenger safety amid worsening weather conditions.
Number of Flights Cancelled During the Day
According to airport officials, approximately 50 flights were cancelled in total, evenly split between incoming and outgoing services. These cancellations were reported as snowfall continued through the day, with no immediate improvement in weather conditions. Airport sources indicated that the situation was being monitored closely, but operational limitations remained in place until conditions stabilized.
Additional Services Unlikely to Operate
Apart from the already cancelled flights, four additional arrivals were scheduled later in the day. However, officials said these services were unlikely to operate due to the prevailing weather. Snowfall in the region remained steady, raising concerns about runway clearance timelines and the feasibility of resuming flights safely before conditions improved.
Passenger Advisories and Airline Coordination
Airport authorities advised passengers to remain in regular contact with their respective airlines for the latest information. Travelers were encouraged to check flight status updates directly with carriers and explore alternative travel arrangements where possible. Officials said airlines were responsible for communicating changes, rebooking options, and accommodation support to affected passengers.
Tourists Among the Worst Affected
The flight disruptions left a large number of tourists stranded in Srinagar and nearby areas. Many visitors had planned to return home after spending the weekend and the Republic Day holiday in Kashmir. With outbound flights cancelled, several travelers were forced to extend their stay, adding to accommodation and travel-related challenges during the peak winter season.
Impact of Winter Weather on Air Travel
Snowfall-related disruptions are not uncommon at Srinagar International Airport during winter months. The airport operates under specific weather thresholds, and heavy snowfall often leads to temporary suspension of services to allow for runway clearing and safety checks. Aviation officials said such measures are necessary to prevent operational risks in difficult terrain and weather conditions.
Ongoing Monitoring and Possible Resumption
Authorities said weather conditions would continue to be reviewed before any decision on resuming flight operations. Airport teams remained on standby to carry out snow clearance once conditions permitted. Passengers were urged to stay informed through official airline channels rather than relying on unverified information.
As winter weather continues to affect parts of Kashmir, officials reiterated that safety remains the top priority. Travelers planning to fly to or from Srinagar in the coming days have been advised to plan cautiously and remain prepared for potential schedule changes.