New Delhi: Flight services at Trivandrum International Airport will be suspended for five hours on November 9 in response to “Alpassi Aratu‘ parade Sri Padmanaba Swamy Temple.
The parade route crosses the airport runway, necessitating a pause.
Trivandrum International Airport Limited (TIAL) has announced the suspension of flights from 4 pm to 9 pm on November 9.
“The runway at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport remains closed twice a year to facilitate the passage of the Sri Padmanaba Swamy Temple procession. The procession follows its current path to reach Shangumugam Beach for the The practice of bathing in icons began centuries ago.
For decades, flight operations have been suspended and rescheduled twice a year to allow the ceremonial procession to pass the runway. The ceremony dates back to 1932, before the airport was established.
King Sree Chithira Thirunal of Travancore made the airport open 363 days a year and reserved two days for the royal deity Lord Padmanaba. This practice continues even under current management adani group.
Notices to Airmen (NOTAM) are issued twice a year before departure Runway closed During the Alpasi festival from October to November and the Painkuni festival from March to April.
