Heavy rainfall and lightning activity near Kempegowda International Airport caused severe disruptions to air travel in Bengaluru on May 12. As a result, 11 flights were diverted to Chennai and temporary changes were made to the flight schedules.
Bengaluru International Airport Limited (BIAL), the airport’s operator, stated that the inclement weather was responsible for the disruptions. Among the affected flights were several domestic and international carriers, with Air India, Akasa Air, Air Asia India, Alliance Air, Vistara, Thai Airways, Thai Lion Air, Air France, and KLM witnessing deviations from their intended routes. Notable domestic flights included Air India services from Delhi and Mumbai, Akasa Air flights from Mumbai and Goa, Air Asia India’s operation from Guwahati, Alliance Air’s departure from Goa, and Vistara’s service from Delhi. Internationally, Thai Airways and Thai Lion Air flights from Bangkok, along with Air France and KLM flights from Paris and Amsterdam respectively, were rerouted to Chennai due to adverse weather conditions in Bengaluru.
The swift action to divert flights ensured passenger safety and operational efficiency amidst challenging weather conditions. However, the disruptions underscore the vulnerability of air travel infrastructure to inclement weather patterns, necessitating proactive measures to mitigate potential disruptions and ensure seamless travel experiences for passengers. BIAL’s prompt response in managing the situation reflects its commitment to maintaining operational resilience and passenger satisfaction even in the face of unforeseen challenges. The incident serves as a reminder of the critical role played by airport authorities and airline operators in ensuring the safety and well-being of passengers during adverse weather events.
As Bengaluru grapples with the onset of monsoon showers, stakeholders in the aviation sector must remain vigilant and proactive in their approach to weather-related contingencies, prioritising passenger safety above all else. The incident highlights the importance of robust contingency plans and collaborative efforts among stakeholders to minimise disruptions and uphold the integrity of air travel operations.
A BIAL spokesperson said that there were no landings at Bengaluru airport between 11:18 pm and 11:54 pm on May 12 due to heavy rain and lightning. “Of the 11 flights diverted to Chennai, seven were domestic and four were international.”
