Dense Smog Disrupts Flight Operations Across North India
Delhi flights were cancelled due to fog, disrupting air travel on Friday as dense smog reduced visibility across northern India, leading to large-scale delays and cancellations at IGI Airport. As Delhi flights were cancelled due to fog that continued to rise, airlines and authorities issued multiple advisories for passengers.
152 Flights Cancelled at Delhi Airport
According to officials, 152 flights, including two international flights, were cancelled on Friday due to dense fog at Delhi airport. This followed 27 flight cancellations on Thursday, which included 16 departures and 11 arrivals. In addition, many flights that were not cancelled departed behind schedule, while several aircraft waited on runways for extended periods.
Civil Aviation Ministry Issues Nationwide Advisory
The Ministry of Civil Aviation warned that airport operations across the country could be affected due to dense smog in North India. In a post on X, the ministry urged passengers to stay in touch with airlines, check official platforms for updates, and allow extra travel time. It also assured travellers that passenger facilitation teams were deployed at airports to assist during disruptions.
Airports Authority of India Warns of Low Visibility
Earlier on Thursday, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) issued a weather advisory highlighting persistent fog across northern India. AAI cautioned that low visibility could lead to delays at multiple airports and advised passengers to confirm flight status before leaving for the airport. The authority also recommended checking official airport websites and social media handles for real-time updates.
IndiGo Issues Travel Advisory for Passengers
Airline operator IndiGo also issued a travel advisory, stating that early-morning fog in Delhi and other parts of northern and eastern India was impacting flight schedules. The airline advised passengers to check flight status in advance and allow extra travel time, as reduced visibility could slow down road traffic as well.
Options Offered to Affected Passengers
IndiGo informed customers that those impacted by delays or cancellations would receive timely updates on their registered contact details. Passengers were given the option to choose alternate flights or claim refunds through the airline’s website. The airline added that its teams were closely monitoring conditions and working to normalise operations as visibility improves.
CAT III Operations Implemented at IGI Airport
Meanwhile, IGI Airport confirmed that flight operations were being conducted under CAT III conditions due to low visibility. A CAT III Instrument Landing System allows aircraft to land in extremely poor visibility with advanced equipment and trained pilots. Airport authorities said ground teams were coordinating with all stakeholders to assist passengers across terminals.
Poor Air Quality Adds to Delhi’s Woes
The disruptions came as Delhi woke up to poor air quality on Friday morning. According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), the city’s overall AQI stood at 387 at around 8 am, placing it in the ‘very poor’ category. Authorities expect fog-related disruptions to continue if weather conditions persist. Follow for more updates,
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