Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu has been closed indefinitely. The airport administration stated that all flight operations have been suspended due to landing difficulties caused by fires and unrest across various parts of Kathmandu on Tuesday.
Airport Operations Suspended
According to TIA spokesperson Rinjee Sherpa, all regular flights from the airport have been suspended until further notice. Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA) in Kathmandu, initially scheduled to reopen by 12:00 noon, remains closed indefinitely due to worsening smoke conditions. Authorities have urged the public not to visit the airport until further notice. Passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines for updates and to proceed to the airport only after official information regarding the resumption of operations is released.
Despite the shutdown, officials confirmed that emergency flights and medical evacuation flights will continue to operate, ensuring critical travel needs are still met. All other commercial and scheduled flights have been canceled or postponed, and passengers are advised to stay in contact with their airlines for updates.
Safety and Air Quality Concerns
The spike in smoke over the Kathmandu Valley has raised serious concerns for aviation safety. Reduced visibility and potential health risks for airport personnel, passengers, and nearby residents prompted the decision to keep the airport closed. Authorities have been closely coordinating with meteorological experts to assess the situation and determine the safest time for resuming operations.
The Kathmandu Valley has experienced dense smoke and haze since Tuesday afternoon, affecting daily life and visibility for road and air transport. Local authorities have urged residents to take precautions, including limiting outdoor activities and wearing masks where necessary.
Impact on Passengers and Airlines
The extended closure of TIA has disrupted numerous domestic and international flights, affecting thousands of travelers. Airlines have been instructed to coordinate with passengers regarding cancellations, refunds, and rescheduling options. Many flights have been delayed or rerouted to alternate airports where possible, while airlines continue to monitor conditions closely.
Travelers are advised to check their flight status online or contact airlines directly before arriving at the airport to avoid inconvenience. Airports officials have emphasized that passenger safety is the top priority and that flights will resume only when conditions are deemed safe for aviation operations.
Previous Decisions and Current Status
Earlier today, authorities had announced that the airport would remain closed only until 12:00 noon. However, as smoke levels increased unexpectedly in the afternoon, the closure was extended by six hours. The airport administration continues to monitor air quality, weather conditions, and visibility to decide on the next course of action.
Recommendations for Travelers
Passengers scheduled to fly today are strongly encouraged to remain flexible with their travel plans. Airlines have been advised to assist stranded passengers and provide alternative travel arrangements where possible. Emergency and medical flights will continue to operate under strict safety protocols, ensuring critical services are maintained despite the closure.
Tribhuvan International Airport’s temporary closure underscores the impact of environmental factors, such as heavy smoke, on aviation safety. Authorities continue to monitor the situation closely, coordinating with meteorological and aviation experts to determine a safe reopening time. Meanwhile, passengers and airlines are urged to remain patient as officials prioritize safety over convenience.
