Rising Temperatures Halt Flights to High-Altitude Leh Airport

High temperatures at high altitudes are affecting flight operations to and from Leh, which is situated at nearly 10,700 feet above sea level. Domestic airlines use A320 and B737 aircraft for Leh airport, but some carriers have recently cancelled flights due to the heat, according to industry sources.

Representative image

IndiGo's flight operations to and from Leh have been disrupted by the high outside air temperature in the area, which is beyond the airline's control, stated an IndiGo spokesperson. The maximum temperature for operating an A320 Neo aircraft is 33 degrees Celsius. If temperatures exceed this limit, the aircraft cannot operate at that altitude, explained a senior Airbus pilot.

Temperature Limits for Aircraft

For Boeing 737 planes, the operational temperature limit at Leh airport is 32 degrees Celsius, as per a SpiceJet official. These maximum temperatures are determined by considering various operational factors, including airport elevation and surrounding obstacles, noted the pilot.

The Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport in Leh stands at an altitude of 10,682 feet above sea level. Pilots receive special training to operate flights to this airport, one of the highest commercial airports globally.

Impact on Flight Operations

In recent weeks, temperatures in Leh have mostly been high, often exceeding 30 degrees Celsius. This situation has led to the cancellation of some flights. IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, and Vistara all operate services to Leh.

Aviation industry officials mentioned that high temperatures cause operational challenges, including issues related to an aircraft's payload. At high altitudes like Leh, the air density is lower. Combined with high temperatures, it becomes challenging for aircraft to take off.

Details about the number of flights cancelled on Tuesday were not available. However, it is clear that high temperatures are causing significant disruptions in flight schedules.

The maximum temperature limits for aircraft operation are crucial for safety and efficiency. These limits ensure that planes can safely take off and land without compromising performance or safety standards.

As temperatures continue to rise in Leh, airlines may need to adjust their schedules or find alternative solutions to maintain regular flight operations without compromising safety.

This ongoing issue highlights the challenges faced by airlines operating in extreme conditions and the importance of adhering to safety regulations and operational parameters.