Thiruvananthapuram Int'l Airport To Halt Flight Operations For 4 Hours On April 11 — Here’s Why

The origins of this unique tradition stretch back to the time of Sree Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma, the last ruling Maharaja of Travancore, allowed for airport construction in 1932.

The procession, which dates back centuries, continues despite the modern aviation hub that now operates on the same grounds.

Source : X

Flight operations at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport will be suspended for over four hours on April 11. According to Thiruvananthapuram International Airport Ltd (TIAL), services will be halted between 4:45 PM and 9:00 PM to make way for the traditional 'Painkuni Arattu' ritual associated with the historic Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple

On the day of event, the ceremonial procession will pass through the airport premises en route to Shangumugham Beach. This bi-annual ritual sees the temple idols taken for a symbolic sea bath and requires the temporary closure of the airport runway.

“This is a unique and sacred tradition observed twice a year, during the Painkuni and Alpassi festivals, where the runway is closed to allow the temple procession to proceed. It reflects the rich cultural and spiritual heritage of Kerala,” TIAL mentioned in a post.

The runway at #ThiruvananthapuramAirport is closed twice a year to allow the Sree Padmanabha Swamy temple procession to pass through. This tradition, which involves taking the route to Shangumugham Beach for the idols' ritual bath, dates back centuries.#TRV #Thiruvanathapuram… pic.twitter.com/F5A5wGxUyy

— Thiruvananthapuram International Airport (@TRV_Airport_Off) April 7, 2025

 

The procession, which dates back centuries, continues despite the modern aviation hub that now operates on the same grounds. Airport authorities have issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM) to inform airlines and ensure proper coordination. Travellers have been urged to verify their flight schedules directly with their airlines to avoid inconvenience.

'Painkuni Arattu' procession

The origins of this unique tradition stretch back to the time of Sree Chithira Thirunal Balarama Varma, the last ruling Maharaja of Travancore, who allowed for airport construction in 1932 with a special clause: two days a year would be reserved exclusively for Lord Padmanabha, the royal family's patron deity.

This rare intersection of ancient custom and modern infrastructure continues to be observed during both the Painkuni (March–April) and Alpassi (October–November) festivals, marking a harmonious blend of past and present in Kerala’s capital.