Nepal Unrest Grounds Flights: Indian Airlines Suspend Kathmandu Services Amid Violent Protests

The skies over Nepal grew turbulent in December 2015, not from weather, but from a wave of violent protests that brought air travel to a standstill. Major Indian carriers, including the national flag bearer Air India, along with private giants IndiGo and Vistara, were compelled to suspend their flight operations to Kathmandu's bustling Tribhuvan International Airport, stranding countless passengers and disrupting crucial regional connectivity.

The genesis of this unprecedented disruption lay deep within Nepal's domestic political landscape.

The nation was grappling with intense unrest stemming from a contentious dispute over a proposed federal structure for the country. The Tharu community, a significant ethnic group, spearheaded the protests, vehemently opposing the government's redrawing of internal provincial borders. Their demonstrations, initially peaceful, escalated into violent clashes with law enforcement, particularly around critical infrastructure like the capital's international airport.

One of the most immediate impacts was felt by Air India flight AI 215, en route from Delhi to Kathmandu.

The flight was significantly delayed, a stark indicator of the burgeoning chaos. As the situation deteriorated, airport authorities and airlines were left with no choice but to prioritize safety. IndiGo, a prominent low-cost carrier, proactively cancelled its flights to Kathmandu, while Vistara, known for its premium services, also found its schedule severely affected by the escalating crisis.

The fallout was extensive.

Passengers found themselves marooned at various airports, their travel plans shattered by circumstances beyond their control. For many, it meant missed connections, ruined holiday plans, or critical business meetings postponed indefinitely. The ripple effect wasn't confined to international carriers alone; even local Nepali airlines like Buddha Air were forced to scrap numerous flights, further isolating the capital.

As police forces moved to contain the increasingly volatile situation, arresting dozens of protesters, the underlying tensions remained palpable.

The suspension of flights by Indian carriers underscored the severity of the crisis, highlighting how internal political disputes could spill over and significantly impact international relations and commerce. This period served as a stark reminder of the delicate balance required to maintain stability, both in the air and on the ground, in a region prone to political shifts.