Introduction
Flight operations at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport were severely affected due to dense fog conditions, leading to widespread delays, diversions, and cancellations. As winter tightens its grip over North India, reduced visibility continues to disrupt air travel, causing inconvenience to thousands of passengers. Early morning and late-night flights were the most impacted, highlighting the recurring seasonal challenge faced by India’s busiest airport.
Dense Fog Reduces Visibility at IGI Airport
Dense fog blanketed the national capital, significantly lowering visibility levels around the airport runways. In some instances, visibility dropped to near zero, making it unsafe for aircraft to land or take off. Despite the airport being equipped with advanced CAT III Instrument Landing Systems (ILS), only flights operated by trained pilots and compatible aircraft were able to function under such conditions.
Flight Delays, Diversions, and Cancellations
Several domestic and international flights experienced long delays, while some were diverted to nearby airports such as Jaipur and Lucknow. Airlines also cancelled multiple flights due to operational constraints and crew duty time limitations. Passengers were advised to check real-time flight status before heading to the airport to avoid prolonged waiting times.
Airlines Issue Passenger Advisories
Major airlines issued advisories through official channels, urging travelers to stay updated on flight schedules. Airlines also offered options such as free rescheduling, refunds, and alternate flight arrangements in accordance with fog-related disruption policies. Airport authorities deployed additional staff to manage passenger flow and provide assistance.
Impact on Passengers
Passengers reported extended waiting periods, missed connections, and travel uncertainty. While airport terminals remained operational, overcrowding was observed during peak hours. Authorities emphasized that safety remains the top priority and delays are unavoidable during extreme weather conditions.
Winter Fog: A Recurring Challenge
Dense fog is a regular phenomenon during winter months in North India, especially from December to January. Although technological advancements have improved operational capabilities, weather-related disruptions continue to pose challenges for smooth air traffic management at Delhi Airport.
Conclusion
The dense fog-induced disruption at Delhi Airport once again highlights the impact of winter weather on aviation operations. Passengers planning to travel during fog-prone periods are advised to stay informed, allow extra time, and remain flexible with travel plans. As weather conditions gradually improve later in the day, flight operations are expected to stabilize.