Dense Fog Disrupts Flights in Delhi, Over 100 Services Affected as Government Issues Advisory

Dense fog and low visibility conditions disrupted flight operations across Delhi and parts of northern India on Tuesday, forcing the cancellation, diversion, and delay of over 250 flights. The Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) issued a passenger advisory and directed airlines to strictly follow facilitation norms to minimise inconvenience.

According to officials, visibility dropped sharply early Tuesday morning as thick fog blanketed the national capital, affecting both air and road traffic. The situation prompted authorities to activate low-visibility protocols at Indira Gandhi International Airport.

Over 118 Flights Cancelled, 16 Diverted at Delhi Airport

Low visibility led to widespread disruption at Delhi airport. Officials confirmed that 118 flights were cancelled, 16 flights were diverted, and 130 services were delayed on Tuesday.

Out of the cancelled flights, 60 arrivals and 58 departures were affected. Several flights were diverted to nearby airports due to unsafe landing conditions.

Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) said that operations continued under CAT III conditions, which allow aircraft equipped with specialised systems to land in extremely poor visibility. However, flights not compliant with CAT III norms faced delays and cancellations.

Civil Aviation Ministry Issues Passenger Advisory

The Ministry of Civil Aviation urged passengers to stay updated through official airline channels and plan additional travel time.

“Due to prevailing fog and low visibility across parts of northern India, flight operations at select airports may be impacted,” the ministry said in a statement. “Passengers are advised to proactively check flight status, remain in contact with their airlines, and allow extra travel time.”

The ministry also instructed airlines to comply with passenger facilitation rules. These include providing timely information, meals for delayed passengers, refunds or rebooking in case of cancellations, baggage assistance, and prompt grievance redressal.

Airlines Step Up Assistance, Monitor Situation Closely

Airlines confirmed that they are closely monitoring weather conditions and adjusting operations to reduce disruptions.

IndiGo said foggy conditions persisted across Delhi and other northern airports, warning that reduced visibility could continue to affect departures and arrivals through the day. The airline said its teams were making operational adjustments wherever required.

Air India also said it had taken proactive measures to assist passengers. The airline confirmed that ground staff were available at key touchpoints to support travellers facing delays, diversions, or cancellations.

“We understand how frustrating such disruptions can be and are making every possible effort to minimise inconvenience,” Air India said in a post on X.

CAT III Operations Activated at Delhi Airport

Delhi airport confirmed that flight operations were being conducted under CAT III low-visibility procedures, which allow landings even when visibility drops significantly.

“Our ground teams are on-site and actively assisting passengers to ensure a smooth travel experience,” DIAL said. It advised passengers to contact their respective airlines for the latest flight updates.

Airport authorities also deployed additional assistance teams to manage passenger movement and address queries at terminals.

Air Quality Remains Poor as Fog Intensifies

The dense fog coincided with deteriorating air quality in the capital. The Air Quality Index (AQI) stood at 388 on Tuesday morning, showing only marginal improvement from Monday’s reading of 401, which fell in the “severe” category.

Data from the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) showed 16 monitoring stations recorded “severe” air quality, while 21 stations reported “very poor” levels.

Areas such as Anand Vihar, Rohini, Punjabi Bagh, and Wazirpur continued to report high pollution levels, worsening visibility and discomfort for residents.

Weather Outlook Remains Unfavourable

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) recorded a minimum temperature of 9.4 degrees Celsius in Delhi and issued an orange alert, warning of very dense fog conditions through the day.

The IMD forecast indicates that air quality is likely to remain in the “very poor” category over the next several days, with light winds limiting pollutant dispersion.

Authorities Urge Caution and Planning

Officials advised travellers to remain patient and flexible as fog conditions may continue to disrupt travel plans. Motorists were also urged to drive cautiously, use headlights, and avoid unnecessary travel during early morning hours.

As winter intensifies, authorities expect fog-related disruptions to remain frequent, particularly during early mornings and late nights across northern India.