Chaos at Bhubaneswar airport as Kolkata flyers stranded after flight diversions

Severe weather triggered by Kalbaisakhi (Nor’wester) in Kolkata on Saturday led to the diversion of multiple flights. According to officials at the Biju Patnaik International Airport, eight flights headed for Kolkata were diverted to Bhubaneswar as strong winds and heavy rains made landing unsafe.

Six Flights Return to Kolkata

Out of the eight diverted flights, six were later cleared to return to Kolkata once the weather conditions improved. Airport authorities in Bhubaneswar confirmed that the flights were able to take off safely after a temporary halt.

However, the remaining two flights continue to remain grounded at Bhubaneswar Airport as of the latest reports.

Passengers Stranded, Airport Buzzes with Activity

The unexpected diversions caused considerable commotion at Bhubaneswar Airport. Sources reported with visuals noting that passengers had to wait for hours inside the airport terminals, leading to crowding and operational pressure.

It is worth noting that during this period, airport staff and airlines coordinated efforts to manage the situation, providing updates and assistance to the stranded travellers.

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Airport Authorities Monitor the Situation

Officials at Bhubaneswar Airport stated that they are closely monitoring the situation and are in constant communication with their counterparts in Kolkata.

Reports also stated that as soon as the weather permits and a clearance is received, the remaining flights will either resume their journey or alternative arrangements will be made.

Meanwhile, in Kolkata, flight operations are gradually returning to normal as the intensity of the storm continues to subside.