Chennai cancels flights from Colombo ahead of cyclone 'Mandous'

More than 25 domestic flights and three international flights including from Colombo to Chennai were cancelled ahead of cyclone Mandous making its landfall.

International flights from Colombo, Abu Dhabi and Roland Garros in French Reunion were cancelled and ATR aircraft including those operating from Tuticorin, Cuddapah, Mysuru, Bengaluru, Madurai, Vijayawada, Mangaluru, Calicut, Hubli, Kannur and Trichirappali were grounded.

Chennai Airport Director Dr Sharad Kumar said a few ATR flights have been diverted to Bengaluru.
Chennai airport team is also in close coordination with the Tamil Nadu government and National Disaster Response Force has positioned their team on close proximity to the airport to meet any eventuality.
Measures have been taken to protect the New Integrated Terminal Building and other buildings from water ingression. 

All the drain openings and operational drains have also been checked for any blockages to ensure the smooth passage of flood water. A stakeholders meeting was convened by AAI at the Aerodrome operations Coordination Committee (AOCC) at 6 pm on Friday to assess the current situation and preparedness to ensure smooth operations during adverse weather conditions.

Airlines were informed to update passengers about any delays or cancellations well in advance. The Airport Authority of India has ensured the availability of Radar and Nav aid services. To avert the eventuality of inundation of sensitive equipment, the drains on the airside and the water flow level of the Adyar river are being monitored continuously on an hourly basis. At present, the water level is approximately four metres below the maximum flow level.