Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport, commonly known as Leh Airport (IATA: IXL, ICAO: VILH), is a strategically located domestic airport serving the Ladakh region in the northern part of India. It is named after the 19th Kushok Bakula Rinpoche, an eminent lama, diplomat, and statesman from Ladakh. The airport plays a crucial role in connecting this remote and picturesque region with major cities in India. Not just Indian arms forces, but the Leh airport is playing crucial role in tourism promotion in Ladakh besides providing local residents with a year round connectivity with the outer world. Here are some detailed aspects of Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport:
1. Location:
Leh Airport is situated in the Leh district of Ladakh in the union territory of Jammu and Kashmir. The airport is located about 3.5 kilometers (2.2 miles) from the main town of Leh.
2. Altitude:
One of the notable features of Leh Airport is its high altitude. It stands at an elevation of approximately 3,256 meters (10,682 feet) above sea level. The high-altitude setting adds a unique aspect to the airport experience, and visitors often need some time to acclimatise to the thin air upon arrival.
3. History:
The airport was named after Kushok Bakula Rinpoche in 2005 to honor his contributions to the region. Rinpoche was not only a spiritual leader but also a key political figure who played a significant role in the development of Ladakh.
4. Operational Season:
Leh Airport is operational throughout the year, but the flight schedules can be affected by weather conditions, especially during the winter months. Snowfall and low visibility may lead to disruptions in flight services.
5. Connectivity:
Leh Airport is well-connected to major cities in India, including Delhi, Srinagar, Jammu, Chandigarh, and Mumbai. Multiple airlines operate regular flights to and from Leh, making it accessible for both domestic and international tourists.
6. Scenic Flights:
Flights to Leh offer breathtaking views of the Himalayan mountain ranges. Passengers are treated to panoramic views of snow-capped peaks and rugged landscapes, making the journey itself a memorable part of the experience. Passengers often remain stick to the windows to watch and click the towering snow-covered Himalayan peaks and glaciers during their journey.
7. Terminal Building:
The airport has a modest terminal building that houses check-in counters, security checks, and waiting areas for passengers. While not overly large, the terminal provides the necessary facilities for travelers. As the existing terminal building is old and not-so-lavish, a new modern building is under construction.
8. Facilities:
The facilities at Leh Airport are basic but adequate. Travelers can find amenities such as baggage handling services, security checks, and a small waiting area. Due to its high-altitude location, it’s advisable for passengers to move slowly and take it easy upon arrival.
9. Transport from the Airport:
Taxis and private vehicles are readily available outside the Leh airport for transportation to various parts of Leh and the surrounding areas. Many hotels and travel agents also offer shuttle services for their guests.
10. Permit Requirements:
Travelers flying into Leh may need to obtain Inner Line Permits (ILP) or Protected/Restricted Area Permit to visit certain restricted areas in Ladakh. Indian tourists can book their permits online. It’s advisable to check and obtain the necessary permits in advance to avoid any hassles during the journey.
11. Weather Considerations:
Leh Airport, like many high-altitude airports, is subject to weather-related disruptions. Winter snowfall or low visibility can lead to delays or cancellations, and travelers should stay informed about the latest flight schedules.
Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport serves as a crucial gateway for tourists and locals alike, facilitating access to the breathtaking landscapes, ancient monasteries, and unique cultural experiences of Ladakh. The airport’s location amidst the majestic Himalayas adds to the allure of this region, making it a destination worth exploring for those seeking adventure and tranquility in equal measure.
New terminal building of Leh airport will handle 20 lakh passengers annually
High Temperature in Leh causes frequent flight cancellations
Flights to Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (Leh Airport) are often canceled if the temperature rises above 32 degrees Celsius due to several factors related to aviation safety and aircraft performance. A large number of flights to Leh airport have been cancelled in the last 3-4 days after unprecedented rise in temperature when merucury crossed 32 degrees C notch. While flights operate easily in 40 to 48 degrees Celsius temperature in Delhi, Mumbai or Dubai, why Leh airport faces chaos just above 32 degrees C. Here are the key reasons:
- Reduced Air Density: As temperature increases, air density decreases. Aircraft rely on air density for lift. Lower air density reduces the lift generated by the wings, making it more challenging for planes to take off and land safely, especially on shorter runways like those at Leh Airport.
- Performance Limitations: Aircraft have specific performance limitations that are affected by temperature. High temperatures can impact engine performance and overall aircraft efficiency. Airlines adhere to strict performance charts to ensure safe operations, and exceeding these limits can lead to safety risks.
- Runway Length: Leh Airport’s runway is relatively short and located at a high altitude (around 3,256 meters or 10,682 feet). The combination of high altitude and high temperatures further reduces engine thrust and lift. This requires longer distances for takeoff and landing, which might not be available at Leh’s runway.
- Safety Margins: Airlines and aviation authorities prioritize safety margins. Operating in high temperatures at high altitudes can reduce these margins, increasing the risk of accidents. Canceling flights under such conditions ensures that safety is not compromised.
- Weight Restrictions: In high temperatures, aircraft might need to operate with reduced weight to safely take off and land. This means limiting passenger numbers, cargo, and fuel. If the required weight reductions are too significant, airlines might find it more practical to cancel flights rather than operate with such restrictions.
These factors combined make it challenging to operate flights safely under high-temperature conditions at Leh Airport (Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport), leading to cancellations when temperatures exceed safe operational limits. Sometimes flights do not risk even safe landing at Leh airport as they know that temperature is expected to rise during their scheduled take off time. The flights from Leh airport do not take off after the late afternoon due to high velocity winds. The flight may have to wait for one full day to fly out of Leh which can lead to cancellation of their further connecting sorties. To avoid these losses, many flights cancel their flights in advance, sometimes even before any concrete or high level warning.
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