Delhi Fog Triggers Major Flight Disruptions at IGI Airport
Dense fog across parts of Northern India has severely impacted air travel, leading to widespread Delhi fog flight disruption at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. According to aviation authorities, at least 66 flight arrivals and 63 departures were cancelled on Saturday, causing inconvenience to thousands of passengers. In response, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has issued a fresh weather advisory, warning travellers of further delays and disruptions.
AAI Issues Weather Advisory for Northern India
The Airports Authority of India took to social media platform X to alert passengers and airlines about deteriorating visibility conditions.
“Reduced visibility due to fog across parts of Northern India may impact flight operations at select airports, leading to possible delays or disruptions,” the AAI said in its advisory.
This AAI weather advisory comes as dense fog continues to blanket the region, particularly during early morning hours, significantly reducing runway visibility and forcing airports to activate low visibility procedures (LVP).
Why Are Flights Being Cancelled?
The primary reason behind the IGI Airport cancellations is persistent dense fog, a common winter phenomenon in North India. Over the past few days, visibility levels have dropped sharply, making safe take-offs and landings challenging despite advanced navigation systems.
Key factors behind the disruption include:
Dense fog reducing runway visibility
Activation of low visibility procedures at major airports
Air traffic congestion due to delayed inbound flights
Weather-related safety precautions by airlines
Airlines Respond: IndiGo and Air India Issue Advisories
India’s largest domestic carrier, IndiGo, has also warned passengers about possible disruptions. The airline stated that flights to and from Ranchi, Jammu, and Hindon airports may be affected due to low visibility conditions.
Air India echoed similar concerns, assuring passengers that it is actively monitoring the situation.
“Air India continues to remain vigilant and will make every effort to mitigate fog-related disruptions. We understand how important your travel plans are, especially during this holiday season,” the airline said in its statement.
Air Quality Worsens Situation in Delhi
Adding to travel woes, Delhi’s air quality deteriorated sharply on Saturday morning. Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed the city’s Air Quality Index (AQI) at 384, categorised as “very poor.” Poor air quality combined with fog further complicates aviation operations, especially during peak hours.
What Passengers Should Do
Aviation experts advise travellers to stay alert and plan ahead during this period of Delhi fog flight disruption. Passengers should:
Check flight status before leaving for the airport
Allow extra travel time due to possible delays
Stay in touch with airlines for real-time updates
Opt for flexible bookings where possible
Fog to Continue Impacting Air Travel
With winter conditions intensifying, fog-related disruptions are likely to continue in the coming days. The AAI and airlines remain on high alert, but passengers are advised to remain cautious and informed. As weather patterns remain unpredictable, planning ahead is key to avoiding last-minute travel stress during this fog-prone season.
