Disruption of flight operations at Kolkata Airport

Kolkata Airport

Bongobarta Bureau,


Flight operations at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport (NSCBI) Kolkata experienced significant disruptions today owing to the implementation of safeguarding procedures ahead of 26 January Republic Day. This is the third consecutive days, as NSCBI airport passengers faced flight delays.
It is worth noting that several central agencies had issued warnings about potential subversive activities following a recent incident in Bangladesh and the arrest of members of Bangladeshi terrorist outfits in West Bengal.
The operational impact was observed between 6.26 am and 12.10 pm, causing delays and affecting passenger schedules. Regarding key operational impacts, Airport Authorities of India spokesman said that total of 23 arriving flights faced delaid during this period. Passengers were inconvenienced as they had to wait longer for their flights to land due to operational constraints. A total number of 30 departing flights were delayed. Passengers scheduled to leave during this window experienced extended waiting times at the terminal. There were no ramp returns reported, indicating that no aircraft had to return to the terminal after commencing taxiing. Airport sources said that there were no diversions reported, suggesting that flights en route to Kolkata were not rerouted to alternative airports during the disruption. The safeguarding procedures, while essential for operational safety and security, created a ripple effect on the flight schedule. Airport authorities and ground staff worked diligently to manage the situation and minimize inconvenience to passengers. Passengers were advised to stay updated on their flight schedules during such periods and cooperate with airport officials to ensure smooth operations. The airport management has expressed its commitment to reviewing the incident and implementing measures to mitigate similar disruptions in the future. Airport Authorities asked the passengers to contact the airport’s customer service helpline or visit the official website for further assistance or updates.
Safeguarding procedures are typically enacted as a precautionary measure or in response to a detected issue, which included runway and taxiway safety. Under this work of inspections for foreign object debris, or structural damage, closure of areas for maintenance or emergencies and ensuring proper lighting and signage. As before 26 January, Republic Day, there was security measures taken as responses to potential security threats,unattended baggage, suspicious activity . Implementation of security sweeps and evacuations if necessary. There were evacuation protocols in case of fire, bomb threats, or other emergencies and crowd management to ensure smooth operations during disruptions. There were weather-related safeguards, which included monitoring severe weather conditions fog, storms, or high winds. Adjusting flight operations to maintain safety, such as delayed takeoffs or landings, said an airport authority of India official.