Cyclone Dana: Kolkata airport to suspend flight operations from 6 pm on Thursday

The Kolkata airport will suspend flight operations for 15 hours due to the anticipated impact of Cyclone Dana. The suspension will start at 6 PM on October 24 and last until 9 AM on October 25, 2024. This decision aims to ensure the safety of passengers, airline personnel, and airport infrastructure as heavy winds and rainfall are expected.

Safety Precautions in Place

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) announced the suspension, emphasizing the need for precaution in light of the cyclone's forecast. An AAI spokesperson stated, “In view of Cyclone Dana's impact on the coastal region of West Bengal, including Kolkata, it has been decided to suspend the flight operations from 6 PM on October 24 to 9 AM on October 25 due to predicted heavy winds and heavy to very heavy rainfall at Kolkata.”

Cyclone's Path and Impact

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) predicts that Cyclone Dana will make landfall between Bhitarkanika National Park and Dhamra port in Odisha early on Friday. The maximum wind speed during this landfall is expected to reach around 120 kmph. Given these conditions, passengers are urged to monitor the situation closely and adjust their travel plans as needed.

This proactive measure reflects the airport's commitment to maintaining passenger safety during adverse weather conditions. Travelers should stay informed through official channels regarding flight status and other updates.