Why Did Air India Cancel Flights to and from Kathmandu?
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Synopsis
Air India's recent flight cancellations to Kathmandu highlight the ongoing unrest in Nepal, triggered by protests following police violence. With 19 fatalities and increasing chaos, the airline prioritizes passenger safety while navigating this complex situation. Stay informed as developments unfold in this crisis.
Key Takeaways
- Air India and IndiGo have cancelled flights to Kathmandu due to unrest.
- The airport in Kathmandu remains non-operational.
- Passengers are advised to check for updates and options for rescheduling or refunds.
- The protests in Nepal have escalated following police violence.
- Political instability continues to impact travel in the region.
New Delhi, Sep 10 (NationPress) Air India has made the decision to cancel its flights operating to and from Kathmandu on Wednesday due to the ongoing closure of the airport amid rising unrest in the region. An airline spokesperson emphasized, "We are closely monitoring the situation and will provide further updates. The safety of our passengers and crew remains our utmost priority."
On Tuesday, both Air India and low-cost carrier IndiGo suspended their flights between Delhi and Kathmandu, as the situation in the neighboring country deteriorated following heightened protests from the Gen-Z demographic. These protests were sparked by the tragic incident where 19 people, including schoolchildren, lost their lives due to police action, with around 200 others sustaining injuries.
The statement from Air India confirmed that the following flights: AI2231/2232, AI2219/2220, AI217/218, and AI211/212, on the Delhi-Kathmandu-Delhi route, have been cancelled for today.
IndiGo also announced that due to the prevailing conditions in Kathmandu, the airport has been rendered non-operational.
They stated, "All flights to and from Kathmandu are currently suspended. If your travel plans are affected, please consider rescheduling your flight or applying for a refund via our website." They further mentioned that they are collaborating with local authorities to resume operations as soon as possible, urging customers to stay updated through official channels. IndiGo expressed gratitude for the patience and understanding of its customers during this turbulent time.
In a significant political development, Nepal’s Prime Minister K.P. Sharma Oli resigned and fled the country amidst escalating protests following the deaths of 19 demonstrators on Monday.
The protests, driven by demands for accountability regarding corruption and restrictions on social media, led to widespread unrest, with demonstrators attacking government buildings and the residences of political leaders.
On Tuesday, protestors breached the parliament building in Baneshwor, Kathmandu, igniting a fire. Previous attempts to vandalize the structure met with a strong police response, resulting in fatalities.
They also infiltrated the Singh Durbar, the main administrative hub of the Nepalese government, setting its main gate ablaze.
India has stated that it is diligently observing the evolving circumstances in the Himalayan nation.
Point of View
It's crucial to approach the unrest in Nepal with a balanced perspective. The protests, while rooted in legitimate grievances, have escalated to violence, resulting in tragic loss of life. Our commitment is to inform our readers with accurate reporting while advocating for peace and accountability.
NationPress
10/09/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why were flights to Kathmandu cancelled?
Flights to Kathmandu were cancelled due to the ongoing unrest in the region, leading to the airport's closure.
What is the current situation in Kathmandu?
Kathmandu is experiencing significant unrest, with protests arising from police violence that resulted in multiple fatalities.
How can passengers impacted by the cancellations proceed?
Passengers can opt for alternate flights or claim refunds through the airlines' official websites.
What measures are airlines taking in response to the unrest?
Airlines are closely monitoring the situation and coordinating with local authorities to ensure passenger safety.
Who is responsible for the recent protests?
The protests are largely driven by the Gen-Z demographic demanding accountability for corruption and justice for the victims of police action.
