The runway at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) has resumed operations after being temporarily closed following heavy rainfall accompanied by a thick layer of hail on Wednesday afternoon.
Airport authorities said flight operations resumed after the accumulated hail was cleared from the runway and other affected areas.
Heavy Hail Accumulates on Runway and Taxiway in Tribhuvan International Airport
The Tribhuvan International Airport’s runway and taxiway areas were covered with a significant amount of hail after heavy rainfall began at around 2:00 p.m. The sudden weather change resulted in the accumulation of hail across the airside facilities.
The thick layer of hail made the runway slippery, creating difficult conditions for aircraft operations and forcing authorities to temporarily suspend takeoffs and landings.
Hail Cleared to Restore Flight Operations
Airport personnel worked to remove the accumulated hail from the runway and make the surface safe for aircraft movement. Following the clearance operation, the runway was declared operational and flight activities resumed.
The temporary closure had affected both arrivals and departures at the airport, with several flights delayed or held due to the adverse weather conditions.
The sudden hailstorm and heavy rainfall also caused water to enter parts of the airport’s domestic terminal, adding to the difficulties faced by passengers and airport authorities.
