The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) held a review meeting to assess operational readiness and aviation safety following inputs from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) regarding Cyclonic Storm “Arnab”. The cyclone is expected to intensify into a Very Severe Cyclonic Storm and cross the Andhra Pradesh coast on 28 October with winds reaching 125–135 kmph and gusts up to 150 kmph. According to the ministry, flights to and from coastal Andhra Pradesh and southern Odisha are expected to be the most affected.
Airport operations at Visakhapatnam have been suspended since the afternoon of 27 October, while flights at Vijayawada and Rajahmundry were suspended after 7 pm on the same day. Several airlines, including Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo, and Akasa Air, announced flight cancellations and service suspensions connected to Visakhapatnam, Vijayawada, and Bhogapuram. The ministry advised airlines to follow adverse weather guidelines, inform passengers about schedule changes, and comply with norms for re-booking and refunds.
Passengers have been advised to check their flight status before heading to the airport and to factor in extra travel time due to potential waterlogging and road closures. The ministry stated that airlines and airport operators must extend support to vulnerable passengers, and unresolved complaints can be raised through the AirSewa portal or app after contacting the airline.
What it means
- Visakhapatnam airport operations have been suspended since the afternoon of 27 October.
- Flights at Vijayawada and Rajahmundry were suspended after 7 pm on 27 October.
- The Delhi–Bhogapuram–Delhi service is cancelled on 28 October.
Source
Press Information Bureau, Government of India, “Ministry of Civil Aviation reviews Cyclone "Arnab" situation and operational readiness”. Read the original release.
Summary of an official release for general information only. Not investment advice. Read the original source before acting on any information.
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