Qatar Airways Flight Diverted to Kolkata Due to Weather Disruptions in Kathmandu

A Qatar Airways flight transporting Nepal’s Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba was diverted to Kolkata on February 28, 2025, due to poor weather in Kathmandu. The aircraft encountered reduced visibility because of a western low-pressure system affecting the region. Safety protocols were followed, and passengers will be updated as conditions improve for resuming the flight to Nepal.

On February 28, 2025, a Qatar Airways flight carrying Nepal’s Foreign Minister, Arzu Rana Deuba, was diverted to Kolkata due to inclement weather conditions in Kathmandu. The aircraft encountered significant visibility issues upon approaching Tribhuvan International Airport (KTM), primarily caused by a western low-pressure system, resulting in light rain and deteriorating weather patterns in the region. The decision to redirect the flight ensured the safety of all passengers onboard.

Minister Arzu Rana Deuba, 63, was returning from a United Nations meeting in Geneva when the flight originating from Doha was forced to divert. Airport officials confirmed that the action taken was a precautionary measure in response to the significant drop in visibility during the approach to Kathmandu. It is expected that the aircraft will continue its journey to Nepal once weather conditions improve.

The Airbus A330-300, registered A7-AED, is known for its reliable performance and safety features. This diversion highlighted Qatar Airways’ commitment to prioritizing passenger safety, with flight crews adhering to international aviation safety protocols during adverse weather. Officials have not disclosed the number of passengers aboard in addition to Foreign Minister Deuba, and it remains uncertain how long the aircraft will remain grounded in Kolkata.

Qatar Airways is actively monitoring the weather to determine when it will be safe to resume the flight to Kathmandu. As similar weather-related disruptions have impacted Tribhuvan International Airport in the past, the airline strives to provide necessary accommodations for passengers while keeping them informed about any updates regarding the flight’s progress.

In a related incident: earlier in February 2025, KLM Royal Dutch Airlines faced a technical issue with a flight carrying Queen Mathilde of Belgium, leading to a priority landing in San Jose, Costa Rica. These occurrences underscore the aviation industry’s commitment to strict safety protocols, demonstrating a proactive response to unforeseen challenges such as adverse weather or technical difficulties.

Both Qatar Airways and KLM’s recent incidents emphasize the importance of effective communication with passengers during unexpected events. While the decision to divert or land prematurely is essential for safety, there are calls for airlines to improve their communication strategies, ensuring that passengers are adequately informed about potential risks and the measures being taken to address them.

As Qatar Airways monitors the situation to safely resume its flight to Kathmandu and KLM works on necessary repairs, it is imperative to recognize that passenger safety remains the top priority for airlines globally. These incidents exemplify the effectiveness of safety systems and emphasize the need for transparent communication to bolster passenger confidence during air travel.

In conclusion, the diversion of the Qatar Airways flight carrying Nepal’s Foreign Minister Arzu Rana Deuba reinforces the critical importance of safety protocols in the aviation industry. The decision to redirect the flight due to weather conditions highlights proactive measures taken by airlines to ensure passenger safety. Furthermore, improving communication with passengers during such events remains essential for maintaining trust and clarity.

Original Source: www.travelandtourworld.com