Air travel during the monsoon season can be unpredictable, and one of the main causes of flight delays and rerouting is weather conditions. As Upendra Lal Shrestha, Senior Quality Assurance Engineer at Buddha Air, explains, “Before every flight, the Operation Control Center team provides a detailed overview of the in-route and destination weather.”
In Nepal, traveling during the monsoon season can be challenging, with long flight delays or flooded roads often causing disruptions. However, it’s important to understand that these delays are mainly due to concerns about flight safety in adverse weather conditions. By understanding why these delays happen and how airlines like Buddha Air manage them, you can better prepare for your trip and reduce the frustration of unexpected travel setbacks.
How Weather Affects Flights
During the monsoon season, flights are typically not heavily disrupted unless the weather poses a significant risk. Aircraft can usually operate during light rainfall, and when visibility is low, pilots can rely on instruments and the guidance of Air Traffic Controllers (ATCs) to navigate.
There are two key sets of flight rules that pilots follow: Visual Flight Rules (VFR) and Instrument Flight Rules (IFR). The choice between these rules depends on the weather conditions on the day of the flight. Pilots decide which set of rules to apply based on the Visual Meteorological Conditions (VMC) at the time.
While light rain may not cause much disruption, the pre-monsoon period can have a more significant impact. Windy, stormy weather and reduced visibility due to rain, fog, and storms can affect flight operations. Even with IFR, strong winds can cause turbulence, and the risk of flying through debris is heightened, making it a potentially dangerous situation.
Flight Delays and Rerouting
One of the biggest concerns during the monsoon season is adverse weather en route, such as thunderstorms or lightning. If a flight encounters these conditions, it may need to hold or reroute to ensure passenger safety. A delay in one flight often creates a chain reaction, affecting other flights that share the same aircraft or routes. This domino effect can result in further delays, making the situation more complex.
Another challenge is that Nepal’s airports, including runway and terminal facilities, were built decades ago when air traffic was lower. With the rapid increase in flight frequency, these older facilities are struggling to handle the growing demand. The congestion at airports, combined with a higher volume of flights, makes it difficult for ATCs to manage everything efficiently, which can contribute to delays.
Managing Flight Delays
Despite having a fleet of 17 aircraft, Buddha Air acknowledges that flight delays can still occur due to technical issues. When such issues arise, passenger safety is the airline’s top priority. In these cases, the affected aircraft is grounded for maintenance, and alternative planes are arranged to minimize disruptions to the flight schedule.
To help passengers stay informed, Buddha Air offers multiple channels, such as a call center, SMS notifications, and a mobile app. These services provide real-time updates on flight status, delays, and revised departure times, allowing travelers to adjust their plans accordingly.
Tips for Flying During the Monsoon
If you’re flying during the monsoon season, it’s essential to be prepared for the unpredictable weather. Here are a few tips to make your journey smoother:
- Plan ahead: If possible, book your flight one or two days earlier than needed to account for potential delays.
- Expect delays: Understand that weather conditions can change at any moment, and there may be long waiting times.
- Stay informed: Use Buddha Air’s communication channels to get real-time updates on your flight status.
While it can be frustrating to experience delays, remember that they are in place to ensure your safety. The airline’s priority is to get you to your destination safely, even if it means waiting a little longer.
By understanding the reasons behind monsoon-related flight delays and how airlines like Buddha Air manage them, you can travel with more confidence and less stress, knowing that your safety is always the top priority.