Winter has tightened its grip on Delhi and large parts of North India, bringing with it dense fog, plunging visibility levels, and growing uncertainty for air travellers. Early morning visuals from the national capital showed runways and roads wrapped in thick fog, prompting airlines and airport authorities to issue fresh advisories.
With flight schedules increasingly vulnerable to weather disruptions, passengers have been urged to remain cautious and proactive. Major domestic carriers have warned that arrivals, departures, and connected flights could be affected as low visibility conditions persist over the coming days.
The situation highlights a familiar seasonal challenge for aviation in northern India, where fog-driven delays and cancellations often disrupt travel plans, particularly during peak winter weeks.
Airlines Warn of Delays and Cancellations
Several leading airlines, including SpiceJet, Air India, and IndiGo, have cautioned passengers that flight operations may face disruptions due to dense fog and adverse weather conditions. Airlines said that departures, arrivals, and their consequent flights might be impacted as visibility drops at key airports.
Passengers have been advised to regularly monitor flight status updates and prepare for possible delays, diversions, or cancellations. Airlines emphasised that safety remains the top priority during periods of poor visibility.
The advisories come amid widespread foggy conditions not just in Delhi but also across Chandigarh and other parts of North India, affecting multiple aviation hubs simultaneously.
SpiceJet Issues Advisory for Delhi Fog
SpiceJet, in a statement shared on its official communication channels, informed passengers that dense fog in Delhi could impact all departures and arrivals throughout the day. The airline highlighted that knock-on effects may also disrupt subsequent flights scheduled to operate after delayed services.
The carrier urged travellers to check their flight status through official platforms before heading to the airport. By doing so, passengers can avoid unnecessary waiting time and plan alternative arrangements if required.
SpiceJet also reminded flyers to keep contact details updated in their bookings to receive timely alerts regarding schedule changes.
Air India Flags Prolonged Poor Visibility
Air India released an advisory warning of potential poor visibility conditions over the next few days. The airline said that weather-related disruptions could impact its primary hub in Delhi, along with several other airports across northern and eastern India.
The national carrier noted that fog conditions during winter often lead to cascading delays across the network, affecting aircraft rotations and crew schedules. Passengers were encouraged to stay informed and flexible with their travel plans.
Air India reassured customers that dedicated teams are working continuously to manage disruptions and minimise inconvenience wherever possible.
Air India’s FogCare Initiative Explained
As part of its mitigation strategy, Air India highlighted its FogCare initiative, designed specifically to support passengers during fog-related disruptions. Under this initiative, travellers booked on flights likely to be delayed receive advance alerts directly on their mobile phones.
The initiative also allows eligible passengers to reschedule their flights without paying additional charges or opt for a full refund if their travel plans are affected. This flexibility aims to reduce stress and uncertainty during unpredictable weather conditions.
Round-the-clock assistance has been assured to help passengers make alternative travel arrangements when needed.
IndiGo Advises Caution for Chandigarh Operations
IndiGo also issued a travel advisory highlighting low visibility conditions in Chandigarh. The airline said that, as a precautionary measure, some flights have been cancelled throughout the day to ensure operational safety.
The carrier advised passengers to allow extra travel time to the airport and check their flight status on the official website before departing from home. IndiGo emphasised that safety-driven decisions may lead to last-minute changes.
Passengers travelling to or from northern airports were urged to remain patient as ground and air operations adapt to changing weather conditions.
Delhi Airport Activates Low Visibility Procedures
In the early hours of Thursday, Delhi Airport announced that Low Visibility Procedures were in progress due to dense fog. Passengers were asked to stay in touch with their respective airlines for real-time updates.
Subsequently, the airport confirmed that flight operations were being conducted under CAT III conditions, which allow aircraft to land in very low visibility but may still result in delays and spacing between flights.
Airport authorities said they are coordinating closely with airlines, air traffic control, and ground handlers to manage the situation efficiently.
Fog and Smog Compound Travel Challenges
Flight disruptions have become increasingly common over the past few days as Delhi remains enveloped in thick smog and fog. Reduced visibility has affected not only aviation but also road and rail transport across the region.
The combination of toxic smog and winter fog has led to visibility dropping sharply during early morning and late night hours, a period that typically sees a high volume of flight operations.
Experts note that such conditions require strict adherence to safety protocols, often resulting in delays as aircraft movements are carefully regulated.
Weather Outlook for the Coming Days
The India Meteorological Department has forecast that shallow to moderate fog is likely to prevail during morning hours on multiple days this week. Certain days are expected to witness moderate to dense fog, especially during early morning periods.
These conditions suggest that flight disruptions could continue intermittently, depending on visibility levels and operational readiness at airports.
Passengers with upcoming travel plans have been advised to remain alert, factor in buffer time, and stay connected with airlines for the latest information.
What Passengers Should Keep in Mind
Travellers flying to or from Delhi and nearby northern airports are encouraged to take precautionary steps. Checking flight status in advance, arriving at the airport with sufficient buffer time, and keeping contact details updated can help reduce inconvenience.
Passengers should also be prepared for last-minute changes, including delays or cancellations, particularly during early morning hours when fog is at its densest.
As winter conditions persist, airlines and airport authorities continue to stress cooperation and patience from passengers while prioritising safety above all else.
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About the Author:
Harshit Raj
