Air travel was severely disrupted on Tuesday as heavy rainfall led to the temporary closure of a key airport runway, causing widespread flight delays and cancellations. Thousands of passengers were affected as airlines struggled to manage schedules amid challenging weather conditions.
According to airport authorities, persistent rain since early morning resulted in waterlogging on one of the main runways, making it unsafe for aircraft operations. As a precautionary measure, officials decided to suspend landings and take-offs on the affected runway to ensure passenger safety. The decision, while necessary, triggered a chain reaction of delays throughout the day.
Several flights were either delayed by hours or cancelled altogether, leaving passengers stranded inside crowded terminals. Many travelers complained about long waiting times, limited seating, and a lack of timely updates. Airline staff were seen assisting passengers with rebooking options, while some airlines provided refreshments and accommodation for those facing overnight delays.
Airport officials stated that ground teams worked continuously to clear water from the runway and assess surface conditions. Engineers carried out safety checks to ensure the runway met operational standards before reopening. Authorities emphasized that safety remains the top priority and that flights would only resume once conditions were fully secure.
Weather officials confirmed that the heavy rain was caused by a strong seasonal system, with more rainfall expected over the next 24 hours. This raised concerns about further disruptions, prompting airlines to issue travel advisories urging passengers to check flight status before heading to the airport.
Airlines also advised travelers to allow extra time for security checks and baggage handling, as congestion continued even after partial operations resumed. Some international flights were diverted to nearby airports, while domestic services experienced rolling delays throughout the afternoon.
Passengers expressed mixed reactions to the situation. While many voiced frustration over missed connections and disrupted plans, others acknowledged the importance of prioritizing safety. “It’s inconvenient, but I’d rather be delayed than risk flying in unsafe conditions,” said one traveler waiting for a rescheduled flight.
By evening, airport authorities confirmed that the runway had reopened on a limited basis, allowing a gradual return to normal operations. However, they warned that delays could continue into the night as airlines worked to clear the backlog of flights.
Officials advised passengers to stay updated through airline notifications and airport announcements. With unpredictable weather patterns becoming more frequent, experts say such disruptions may continue to challenge air travel during the rainy season.
