Kolkata Airport Looks Deserted As Cyclone Remal Forces 21-Hour Suspension Of Flights — IN PICS

Kolkata airport appeared unusually deserted after flight operations for 21 hours starting from Sunday noon due to Cyclone Remal landfall expected at midnight.

Kolkata Airport authorities decided to suspend flight operations for 21 hours from noon on Sunday due to the anticipated impact of cyclone Remal. This will affect 394 flights, both domestic and international.

The terminal building of Kolkata airport appeared unusually deserted on Sunday as flight operations were suspended due to the imminent threat posed by severe Cyclone Remal. (PTI Photo)

This rare sight contrasted sharply with the usual bustling activity at the international hub, leaving the area eerily quiet save for security personnel, Airports Authority of India (AAI) staff, and a few airline employees, PTI reported. (PTI Photo)

The decision to suspend operations followed a stakeholders' meeting on Saturday, chaired by NSCBI Airport director C Pattabhi, based on forecasts indicating wind speeds exceeding 50 to 60 knots, with gusts up to 70 knots. (PTI Photo)

Security personnel maintained their vigilant watch across the premises, creating an ambiance akin to a terminal building yet to open for operations, as per PTI's report. (PTI Photo)

"The last flight out of Kolkata airport, an IndiGo flight bound for Bangalore, departed at 12:16 PM, after which operations ceased until 9 AM on Monday," an AAI official stated. "In the period leading up to the suspension, 39 flights departed and 41 landed at Kolkata airport, with nine departures and seven arrivals being cancelled between early morning and noon." (PTI Photo)

During the 21-hour flight suspension, a total of 394 flights, both domestic and international, will be affected, significantly disrupting travel plans for numerous passengers. (PTI Photo)

(PTI Photo)