Dense fog conditions in the national capital disrupted flight operations at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, forcing several airlines to cancel or delay flights. The reduced visibility affected both arrivals and departures, causing inconvenience to passengers during peak travel hours.
The Airports Authority of India and the Ministry of Civil Aviation issued advisories requesting passengers to check their flight status before reaching the airport. Authorities explained that flight operations are dependent on prevailing visibility conditions and the availability of aircraft equipped for low-visibility landings. Airlines were instructed to follow standard safety protocols and make operational decisions accordingly.
According to officials, early morning hours were particularly affected as dense fog significantly reduced runway visibility. Although some flights were able to operate under low-visibility procedures, others faced delays or cancellations due to safety considerations. Airport officials coordinated with airlines to manage air traffic and minimise congestion on runways and taxiways.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation advised passengers to remain in constant touch with their respective airlines through official websites, mobile applications, and customer service channels for real-time updates. Airlines also used social media platforms to inform passengers about changes in flight schedules and rebooking options.
Weather experts said that fog formation is common in northern India during winter due to low temperatures, calm winds, and high moisture levels. These conditions often lead to disruptions in air, rail, and road transport. Authorities have been implementing advanced landing systems at major airports to improve operational efficiency during low-visibility conditions.
Airlines have also been asked to ensure adequate passenger assistance, including timely information, rescheduling options, and refunds where applicable. Airport officials stated that ground staff and air traffic controllers were on alert to handle the situation and ensure passenger safety.
Passengers travelling to or from Delhi were advised to plan their journeys accordingly, allow extra time, and verify flight status before leaving for the airport. Officials also urged travellers to follow instructions issued by airlines and airport authorities.
As winter progresses, similar fog-related disruptions may continue in the coming weeks. Authorities reiterated that safety remains the top priority and that operational decisions will be taken based on weather conditions and visibility assessments.
