Winter fog and hazardous air quality continued to disrupt air travel across the Delhi-NCR on Wednesday, December 24, prompting fresh advisories from airport authorities and airlines. Dense fog, haze and poor visibility conditions forced Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) to activate low-visibility procedures, increasing the risk of flight delays and cancellations.
Airport officials urged passengers to check flight status before leaving for the airport, as weather conditions remain unpredictable and can change quickly during peak winter months.
Low-Visibility Procedures Remain Active at Delhi Airport
Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), which operates IGIA, confirmed that low-visibility procedures are currently in place. Airports typically activate these protocols during winter fog to ensure safe aircraft movement.
While these measures improve safety, they often slow down airport operations. Departures take longer, arrivals face spacing delays, and runway usage becomes restricted.
DIAL acknowledged that visibility conditions showed slight improvement during the day but warned that delays could continue.
“Visibility is improving; however, some departures may still experience delays,” the airport operator said in a post on X.
Tuesday’s Disruptions Highlight Ongoing Risk
The advisory followed significant disruption on Tuesday, December 23, when at least 10 flights were cancelled and over 270 flights were delayed due to dense fog and reduced visibility.
Data from flight-tracking platforms showed average departure delays of nearly 30 minutes. Several aircraft also remained grounded for extended periods while awaiting clearance.
Aviation officials cautioned that similar disruptions could continue over the next few days if fog intensifies during early morning and late night hours.
Air Quality Adds to Travel Challenges
Poor air quality further complicated the situation. On Wednesday morning, Delhi recorded an Air Quality Index (AQI) of 325, placing it in the very poor to hazardous category.
Monitoring stations reported high concentrations of particulate matter. PM2.5 and PM10 remained the dominant pollutants, while nitrogen dioxide and carbon monoxide levels also stayed elevated.
Health experts warn that such pollution levels affect even healthy individuals. Children, elderly people and those with respiratory conditions face higher risks.
Authorities advised residents to limit outdoor exposure and wear masks when stepping outside.
How to Check Flight Status on Delhi Airport Website
Passengers flying through IGIA can track real-time updates directly on the airport’s official website. Authorities recommend this as the first point of reference during fog events.
Steps to check flight status:
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Open the Live Flight Information section
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Enter your flight number and travel date
The portal provides updated information on departure times, arrival schedules, terminals and gate numbers. During severe weather, passengers should cross-check details with airlines.
Is Your IndiGo Flight Delayed? Here’s How to Check
IndiGo passengers can access live updates through multiple official platforms.
Using the IndiGo app or website (recommended):
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Visit www.goindigo.in/check-flight-status.html or open the IndiGo app
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Select Flight Status
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Enter your PNR and date
The system displays real-time information on delays, cancellations, terminals and gate changes.
Other options:
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Third-party apps like Ixigo, Cleartrip, and Yatra
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PNR-based tracking on partner booking platforms
IndiGo also sends SMS and app notifications for flights booked directly.
How to Check Air India and Air India Express Flight Status
Passengers flying with Air India or Air India Express can track updates through official airline channels.
Official websites:
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Air India Express: Accessible via the same portal
Search options include flight number, PNR, date, or route.
Mobile apps:
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Air India app (Android and iOS)
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Tata Neu app, which integrates Air India flight tracking
Third-party trackers:
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Flightradar24 for live aircraft movement
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FlightAware for detailed arrival and departure data
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Ixigo, using the 10-digit PNR
Customer support numbers:
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Air India: 1860 233 1407 / 0124-2641407
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Air India Express: 044-40013001 / 044-24301930
How to Check SpiceJet Flight Status
SpiceJet passengers can use the airline’s official tools and alternate channels.
Official website:
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Visit book.spicejet.com/flightstatus.aspx
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Search by flight number, date or route
Mobile app:
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The SpiceJet app provides live updates on delays and gate changes
WhatsApp and alerts:
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Check status via SpiceJet’s official WhatsApp number: +91 6000000006
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SMS and email alerts are sent to passengers who booked directly
Customer support:
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0124-4983410 / 0124-7101600
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9871803333 / 9654003333
Fog Likely to Persist Over Coming Days
Meteorological agencies expect winter fog to continue across Delhi-NCR in the coming days, especially during early mornings. On Tuesday, AQI crossed 400 at multiple monitoring stations, entering the severe and severe-plus categories.
More than 280 flights were affected that day, underscoring the scale of disruption fog can cause.
Aviation authorities advise travellers to:
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Check flight status before leaving home
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Allow extra travel time to reach the airport
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Stay in touch with airlines for last-minute changes
What Flyers Should Remember
Winter fog remains one of the biggest challenges for air travel in Delhi. Low visibility can disrupt schedules with little notice, even when weather appears to improve.
Passengers who monitor updates closely, plan buffer time and use official tracking tools can reduce stress and avoid unnecessary airport delays.
As foggy conditions persist, authorities continue to prioritise safety while urging travellers to stay informed and prepared.
