Technical Failure Halts All Flights at Kathmandu Airport, Passengers Face Long Delays and Confusion

Kathmandu. Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport faced an unexpected issue in its runway lighting system on Tuesday evening. The problem occurred during peak flight hours, forcing officials to stop all takeoffs and landings. Runway visibility is essential for pilots, especially during low light conditions. Without proper lighting, flight operations become unsafe. Due to this, both incoming and outgoing flights were halted. Passengers waiting inside the airport grew concerned as announcements continued. The issue came suddenly, and authorities acted quickly to avoid any risk.

How Many Flights Were Affected?

At least five flights scheduled for departure were stopped immediately. Aircraft approaching Kathmandu were instructed to divert to other airports. Both domestic and international flights were affected by the disruption. Passengers who had already boarded had to remain seated on grounded aircraft. Inside the terminal, people waited in queues for updates. Some travelers reported confusion due to lack of clear information. Airport speakers repeatedly announced the ongoing technical situation.

Who Is Fixing the Problem?

Airport management called a technical maintenance team to repair the lighting system. Engineers began inspecting the electrical and control panels connected to the runway lights. The repair work is being carried out with urgency to restart operations soon. Authorities said that once the lights are restored, priority flights will be cleared first. Passengers have been requested to remain patient during the process. Security at the airport has also been increased to maintain crowd control. Officials assured that safety is the top priority.

Why Does This Remind of Delhi’s Issue?

Recently, several flights were delayed at Delhi Airport due to a technical system malfunction. The situation at Kathmandu appears similar in nature and effect. Aviation experts say that airport navigation and lighting systems are extremely sensitive. Even a small fault can cause large-scale disruption in air travel. When technical systems fail, thousands of passengers get affected at once. Quick restoration becomes essential to minimize delays. Such incidents highlight how complex and fragile aviation infrastructure is.

What Is the Situation of Passengers?

Passengers waiting at the airport looked worried and tired. Some travelers have connecting flights, which may now get missed. Families traveling with children faced more difficulty due to long waiting hours. People gathered near airline counters asking for updates and solutions. Many passengers shared their experiences and complaints on social media. Some said airlines are not providing clear responses. The atmosphere inside the airport reflected stress and uncertainty.

How Are Airlines Handling the Issue?

Airline companies have started informing passengers about possible alternative flights. Some passengers may receive refunds depending on their booking policy. Those with urgent travel plans may be accommodated in the next available flights. Airlines stated that safety comes before scheduling or commercial concerns. Travelers have been requested to follow official announcements only. Passengers should avoid misinformation from unofficial sources. Airlines said normal operations will resume as soon as the runway lights are restored.

When Will the Situation Return to Normal?

It is currently difficult to say how long the disruption will continue. The runway lighting system is a critical and complex part of the airport’s infrastructure. Technical teams are working continuously to restore it safely. Airport officials are coordinating with airlines and air traffic controllers. The goal is to resume flight operations without compromising safety. Passengers have been advised to remain calm and stay updated through official channels. All related agencies are working to resolve the issue as quickly as possible.