Thiruvananthapuram Airport Closure : An unusual religious tradition will bring flight operations to a temporary halt at Thiruvananthapuram International Airport in Kerala on October 20, 2026. The airport will suspend all flight operations for five hours, not because of bad weather or a technical problem, but to make way for a traditional procession linked to the famous Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. The centuries-old ritual continues to be observed, allowing the religious procession to pass through the airport runway. This rare practice makes the airport an unusual example of aviation operations adapting to a longstanding local tradition.

Flights Suspended for Five Hours
According to Thiruvananthapuram International Airport Limited (TIAL), flight operations will remain suspended from 4 pm to 9 pm on October 20. During this period, aircraft will not be permitted to take off or land. The temporary closure may affect the departure and arrival schedules of several flights. Airport authorities have advised passengers to contact their respective airlines before leaving for the airport to confirm their flight timings. Travellers should check for schedule changes to avoid inconvenience.

What Is the Alpasi Aarattu Procession?
The shutdown is being arranged for the traditional Alpasi Aarattu procession associated with the Sree Padmanabhaswamy Temple. During the religious event, the temple deities are ceremonially taken to Shanghumugham Beach, where a sacred bathing ritual is performed. After the ceremony, the deities are brought back to the temple. The procession follows a route that passes across the airport runway, making a temporary suspension of aircraft movements necessary while the religious ceremony takes place.

Why Does the Procession Cross the Runway?
The procession follows a traditional route that existed before modern airport operations became part of everyday life in the city. Rather than changing the route during the religious ceremony, airport operations are adjusted to allow the procession to pass safely. The arrangement reflects the importance of the temple ritual to the local community. It also requires coordination between the temple authorities and airport officials to ensure that the procession and flight operations do not overlap.

A Tradition Linked to the Travancore Era
The practice is associated with the former princely state of Travancore. According to historical accounts cited in the report, the arrangement was established during the reign of King Sree Chithira Thirunal. Under the tradition, the airport was to remain available for normal operations for most of the year, while two days were reserved for Lord Padmanabha’s religious processions. Thiruvananthapuram Airport was established in 1932, and the ritual has continued alongside its aviation operations.

Why the Airport Closes Twice a Year
The Alpasi Aarattu procession is held twice a year, and airport operations are adjusted on these occasions to accommodate the traditional route. The temporary suspension allows the procession to cross the runway without aircraft movements taking place. For passengers travelling on October 20, the key step is to verify flight schedules with their airlines before departure. The five-hour closure is a reminder of how a long-established religious tradition continues to shape airport operations in Kerala.