Dense fog and severely reduced visibility at Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi forced the cancellation of 66 flights on Friday, airport sources said. The disruptions included 32 arriving services and 34 departures, with several carriers suspending operations until conditions improved.
Delhi flight cancellations: safety rules and operational impact
Authorities confirmed the cancellations came amid the region’s annual fog season, designated from 10 December to 10 February. During this period, low-visibility conditions are common across northern India and can disrupt both scheduled passenger services and cargo movements.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) requires airlines to allocate pilots trained for low-visibility operations when dense fog prevails. In addition, aircraft used in such conditions must be equipped to Category IIIb navigation standards. These measures are intended to maintain safety when visual references are unreliable.
Airlines operating at Delhi airport said they followed established procedures and prioritised safety. Many carriers issued notifications to affected passengers, offering rebooking options and updates on expected departure times. Ground staff increased passenger assistance at terminals to manage queues and provide information about onward connections.
Passengers scheduled to travel through Delhi were urged to contact their airlines for the latest flight status and to allow additional time for airport processes. Many travellers experienced delays to their overall itineraries as operators adjusted schedules, reallocated aircraft and accommodated displaced customers.
Airport officials noted that cancellations at a major hub can have knock-on effects for connecting flights across the domestic and international network. Cargo services are also affected, with time-sensitive shipments at risk of delay. Operations teams worked through the night to clear backlogs and restore normal schedules once visibility improved.
Meteorological forecasts indicate fog patches are likely to persist in the coming days, with early-morning visibility the lowest. Transport authorities urged commuters to plan accordingly, particularly those with tight connections or critical cargo consignments.
While weather-related disruptions can inconvenience passengers and businesses, regulators and airlines stress that these protocols reduce the risk of incidents. The DGCA’s stipulations on trained crews and navigation equipment are part of a broader safety framework that governs operations under adverse conditions.
Travellers can reduce uncertainty by checking airline apps or official airport channels before leaving for the airport. Passengers who face cancellations should retain documentation and receipts related to expenses incurred during delays, as carriers sometimes offer compensation or reimbursements under their customer service policies.
As operations stabilise, officials said they would continue to monitor conditions closely and coordinate with airlines to minimise disruption. For now, the priority remains ensuring safe operations while managing the logistical challenges posed by the fog season in northern India.
Key Takeaways:
- Dense fog at Delhi airport led to 66 flight cancellations, affecting 32 arrivals and 34 departures.
- The annual fog period runs from 10 December to 10 February, increasing low-visibility operations.
- DGCA rules require trained pilots and Category IIIb navigation systems for low-visibility flying.
- Passengers are advised to check with airlines and expect delays or rebooking as operations resume.
