Domestic flights to be delayed for few more hours

Published On: November 20, 2018 10:45 AM NPT

File Photo: Republica

KATHMANDU, Nov 20: Using alternative airports during winter season could help to avert flight delays, according to Raj Kumar Chettri, general manager of Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). All domestic flights are likely to be delayed for few more hours today due to poor visibility.

According to Raj Kumar Chettri, general manager of TIA, small planes cannot fly due when the Visual Flight Rule (VFR) is below 5000 meters. "VFR is the line of sight for a plane before it takes off," Chettri said. The international flights, on the other hand, will be able to fly because its Instrument Flight Rule (IFR) is 1600 meters.

He added that one of the most affected flights during winter will be of Lukla. During season, Lukla has over 100 flights every day. As Lukla has ample flights now, one ways to reduce air traffic as well as help tourists reach their destination is by using alternative to TIA airport. "The nearest and the most convenient is Ramechhap airport because it has better visibility," Chettri said.