The chaos following Cyclone Fengal has highlighted vulnerabilities in India’s aviation system. On November 29, IndiGo flight 6E 5048 from Mumbai struggled during its approach to Chennai, floating over 4,000 feet of runway before executing a go-around and landing on its second attempt.
Flight Operations Resume Post Cyclone Fengal Landfall
Chennai International Airport resumed operations early Sunday after Cyclone Fengal crossed the North Tamil Nadu and Puducherry coasts. The cyclone, which brought heavy rains and strong winds, disrupted air travel and left passengers stranded for hours.
Passenger Woes Amid Flight Delays
Several passengers faced delays of 8 to 10 hours due to flight cancellations. Cyclone Fengal made landfall late Saturday night near Puducherry, with wind speeds of 70-80 km/h, gusting up to 90 km/h. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the storm has weakened into a deep depression as it moved west-southwestward.
Heavy rainfall and gusty winds caused significant disruptions in Tamil Nadu and Puducherry, with authorities relocating residents from affected areas to relief camps, including in Chengalpattu’s Kalpakkam region.
IMD Provides Continuous Updates
The IMD monitored the cyclone using Doppler Weather Radars in Chennai and Karaikal. Sharing updates on X, the IMD confirmed that Fengal was stationary over north coastal Tamil Nadu and Puducherry with wind speeds of 65-75 km/h, gusting to 85 km/h.
Travel Advisory for Passengers
Airlines had issued travel advisories due to the cyclone’s impact, updating schedules to manage disruptions. Despite the resumption of operations, passengers have called for improved communication and support during natural calamities.
