Flight Status Delhi Airport: Dense Fog Disrupts Flight Operations in Delhi-NCR, Passengers Advised Caution
Flight Status Delhi Airport: Dense fog continued to blanket the Delhi-NCR region on Tuesday, significantly impacting daily life and especially air travel. Poor visibility conditions at the capital’s main airport led to widespread disruptions, leaving hundreds of passengers facing delays, cancellations, and diversions. Authorities from aviation and weather departments closely monitored the situation while issuing advisories to ensure passenger safety and convenience.
Flight Cancellations and Diversions at IGI Airport
At Indira Gandhi International Airport, dense fog caused major interruptions to flight schedules. As visibility dropped sharply during the early morning hours, 60 incoming flights and 58 outgoing flights were cancelled. In addition, at least 16 flights were diverted to other airports to avoid safety risks. These disruptions created congestion inside terminals as passengers waited for updates from airlines and airport officials.
Airport authorities acted quickly to manage the situation. A passenger advisory was first issued around 7:00 am, informing travelers about delays and cancellations due to fog-related visibility issues. Later, at 9:00 am, another update reassured passengers that flight operations were gradually stabilizing as visibility conditions improved.
Airport Advisory and Passenger Support Measures
The airport management emphasized that passenger assistance remained a top priority throughout the disruption. According to the advisory, flight operations were running more smoothly once visibility improved, and on-ground staff were deployed across all terminals. These officials were tasked with guiding passengers, answering queries, and offering necessary assistance to those affected by delays or cancellations.
Passengers were encouraged to stay calm, follow official announcements, and remain in touch with their respective airlines for the latest information. Airport officials highlighted that coordinated efforts were being made to minimize inconvenience during the foggy conditions.
Weather Alert Issued by Meteorological Department
The India Meteorological Department issued an orange alert for Delhi and surrounding areas, warning that dense fog would likely persist into the forenoon hours. Meteorologists explained that winter weather patterns, combined with low wind speed and high moisture levels, contributed to reduced visibility across the region.
The alert urged residents and travelers to remain cautious, especially during early morning travel. Road, rail, and air transport services were all advised to take preventive measures to reduce the risk of accidents caused by low visibility.
Air Quality Remains a Major Concern
In addition to fog, Delhi continued to struggle with severe air pollution. The city’s air quality index stood at 384 at around 8:00 am, placing it firmly in the very poor category. Authorities advised residents to limit outdoor activities, particularly children, the elderly, and individuals with respiratory conditions.
Experts noted that stagnant weather conditions not only worsen fog formation but also trap pollutants close to the ground, further deteriorating air quality. This combination of dense fog and pollution made conditions particularly challenging for commuters and travelers.
Civil Aviation Ministry Guidelines for Airlines
The Civil Aviation Ministry acknowledged that fog and low visibility across several parts of North India were affecting flight operations. Passengers were advised to check their flight status in advance, stay connected with airline customer support, and allow extra time for airport procedures.
Airlines were directed to strictly follow passenger facilitation norms. These include providing timely and accurate flight information, offering meals to passengers facing long delays, ensuring rebooking or refunds in case of cancellations, and avoiding denial of boarding for passengers who checked in on time. Proper baggage handling facilities and quick resolution of passenger complaints were also emphasized.
Ongoing Monitoring and Passenger Safety Assurance
The Civil Aviation Ministry confirmed that all relevant agencies were fully prepared to handle the situation and that passenger safety remained the highest priority. The evolving weather conditions were being closely monitored, and coordination between airport authorities, airlines, and weather officials continued throughout the day.
Passengers were reminded that such disruptions are common during winter months in North India and that cooperation with airline staff and airport officials can help ensure a smoother travel experience despite challenging conditions.