Why Did Mizoram’s Lengpui Airport Suspend Operations Due to Runway Potholes?
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Synopsis
Mizoram's Lengpui Airport faced a sudden suspension of flight operations due to potholes on the runway, leading to the cancellation of four flights. This incident highlights ongoing maintenance challenges and the efforts taken to ensure passenger safety.
Key Takeaways
- Flight operations at Lengpui Airport were suspended due to runway potholes.
- Four flights were cancelled, leading to significant disruptions.
- Emergency repairs are underway to ensure safety.
- The CISF has recently taken over security at the airport.
- Maintaining infrastructural integrity is crucial for aviation safety.
Aizawl, Oct 3 (NationPress) Operation of flights at Mizoram’s only airport, Lengpui, was suspended on Friday after officials discovered two potholes on the runway, resulting in the cancellation of four flights and the diversion of others. An official confirmed that flight activities at Lengpui Airport were halted due to the detection of these potholes. As a result, two flights were redirected to Agartala, while one flight each from Kolkata and Guwahati had to turn back without landing.
To prioritize safety, flights scheduled to land at Lengpui from Kolkata, Delhi, and other locations were cancelled. The airport authorities have initiated urgent repair work, and they anticipate that regular flight operations will resume once the runway is adequately fixed.
This isn't the first instance of runway issues at Mizoram's sole airport, as past occurrences of potholes and similar damage have been reported on the tabletop runway. Lengpui Airport, situated 30 km north of Aizawl, connects flights from Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Imphal, and Shillong.
At an elevation of 1,228 feet above sea level, Lengpui Airport is among the few airports in India established by a state government, having been built in 1998. Additionally, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) took charge of security at Lengpui Airport in April this year.
This deployment is a landmark achievement, marking the establishment of the first-ever CISF unit in the Northeastern state of Mizoram.
According to an official, the CISF brings 25 years of aviation security experience, significantly bolstering the safety framework of this strategically vital airport. The decision to station CISF personnel aligns with the Indian government's broader initiative to enhance security across civil aviation facilities nationwide.
Moreover, CISF personnel will collaborate closely with local authorities and stakeholders to create and implement advanced security protocols that are both effective and user-friendly. These augmented measures are designed to ensure that passengers enjoy a secure and seamless travel experience while proactively addressing emerging threats such as terrorism, smuggling, and other illicit activities.
Point of View
I emphasize the importance of maintaining high safety standards in our civil aviation sector. The suspension of operations at Lengpui Airport due to runway issues is a reminder of the ongoing challenges in infrastructure maintenance. It is crucial for authorities to prioritize swift repairs to ensure passenger safety and restore confidence in our air travel systems.
NationPress
03/10/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What caused the suspension of flights at Lengpui Airport?
The suspension was due to the discovery of potholes on the runway, which raised safety concerns.
How many flights were affected by this incident?
Four flights were cancelled, with two being diverted to Agartala.
What actions are being taken to address the runway issues?
Airport authorities have initiated emergency repair work on the runway to restore normal operations.
What is the significance of the CISF's involvement at Lengpui Airport?
The CISF's deployment enhances the security framework at the airport, ensuring passenger safety.
What other locations does Lengpui Airport connect?
Lengpui Airport connects flights to Delhi, Kolkata, Guwahati, Imphal, and Shillong.
