Thiruvananthapuram Airport halts flights for traditional festival

Wednesday, April 17, 2024

Thiruvananthapuram International Airport will experience a temporary suspension of flight services to facilitate the traditional ‘Painkuni Arattu’ procession of the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. The Thiruvananthapuram International Airport Ltd (TIAL) announced that the interruption would occur from 4 PM to 9 PM on April 21, affecting all scheduled flights during these hours.

Officials from TIAL advised passengers to consult with their respective airlines for revised flight schedules, ensuring that travelers are aware of any changes. This suspension is part of a longstanding tradition, where the airport has adjusted its operations to allow the bi-annual ceremonial procession of the temple idols, a practice dating back several decades. This event sees the idols being carried across the airport’s runway en route to Shangumugham beach for a sacred bathing ritual.

Historically, this procession predates the establishment of the airport in 1932. The route for the procession was established centuries ago, and it has been preserved even after the airport began operations. During the planning and construction of the airport, the then ruler of Travancore, King Sree Chithira Thirunal, stipulated that the airport would reserve two days each year exclusively for the procession of Lord Padmanabha, the royal family’s titular deity.

This cultural tradition has persisted through various administrative changes, including the recent transition to management by the Adani Group. Each year, the airport issues a NOTAM (Notice to Airmen) ahead of the runway closure, which coincides with the Alpassi and Painkuni festivals occurring in October-November and March-April, respectively.

The temporary closure of the airport for this religious procession not only honors the cultural and historical significance of the region but also has a notable impact on tourism. Visitors to Thiruvananthapuram during these festivals get a unique opportunity to witness a vibrant part of the local heritage, which can be a significant draw for cultural tourism. This blend of tradition and modernity showcases how regional customs are respected and maintained, even in the face of modern infrastructure and global connectivity.

For the tourism industry, the festival and the accompanying airport suspension offer a chance to promote Thiruvananthapuram as a destination rich in tradition and cultural experiences. While the temporary disruption might pose a logistical challenge, it also enhances the city’s appeal to tourists who are eager to experience authentic cultural events. This practice not only enriches the travel experience but also deepens the cultural appreciation of visitors, potentially boosting tourism-related economic benefits for the area.

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