Kathmandu: The obstruction of key roadways due to landslides and floods has led to a surge in air travel, setting a new record at Tribhuvan International Airport (TIA). On Monday alone, a total of 559 domestic and international flights were operated, marking the highest number of flights ever recorded in a single day at the airport, according to TIA Spokesperson Rinji Sherpa.

Due to road blockages caused by heavy rainfall on September 27 and 28, air travel has become the primary mode of transportation to and from Kathmandu. The record-breaking day saw 227 domestic departures (including helicopters) and 221 arrivals, while internationally, there were 56 arrivals and 55 departures.

This surge is attributed to the growing demand for air travel, with domestic airlines scheduling 169 arrival and 169 departure flights for today, and 58 international departures alongside 57 international arrivals.

The increased reliance on air travel echoes the high demand seen last year during the festival season. With highways obstructed, air services, particularly rescue helicopter flights, have become the only viable travel alternative.