4 January, 2025; New Delhi witnessed significant travel disruptions on Friday morning as dense fog blanketed the city, reducing visibility to critical levels and impacting operations at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA). More than 400 flights were delayed due to the adverse weather conditions, according to an official report.
Impact on Flight Operations
The heavy fog, typical of the winter season in northern India, brought visibility at the airport to less than 50 meters in some areas. Such low visibility prompted the activation of CAT III-B Instrument Landing Systems (ILS), which allow pilots to land aircraft in limited visibility. However, despite these systems, a substantial number of flights were delayed due to safety concerns and operational adjustments.
Airport authorities stated that both domestic and international flights faced delays, causing inconvenience to thousands of passengers. Travelers reported long wait times, missed connections, and crowded terminals as airlines scrambled to adjust schedules.
Passenger Experiences
Passengers took to social media to express their frustrations, highlighting the lack of timely updates and the chaotic situation at the airport. “I’ve been waiting for hours with no clear information on when my flight will depart,” shared a traveler en route to Mumbai.
Meanwhile, some airlines issued advisories urging passengers to check flight statuses before heading to the airport. “Safety remains our top priority,” said an airline spokesperson, adding that operations would resume as soon as weather conditions improved.
Government and Airport Measures
To manage the situation, airport authorities increased staffing at information desks and deployed additional personnel to assist stranded passengers. The Civil Aviation Ministry has been monitoring the situation closely and advised airlines to prioritize passenger safety while ensuring minimal disruptions.
Delhi’s Winter Fog: A Recurring Issue
Delhi and its surrounding regions often experience dense fog during the winter months, primarily due to the drop in temperature and high levels of moisture in the air. The situation is exacerbated by pollution, which contributes to the formation of smog, further reducing visibility.
This recurring weather phenomenon poses significant challenges for the aviation industry and highlights the need for enhanced infrastructure and technology to mitigate such disruptions.
Looking Ahead
As winter progresses, experts predict more days of dense fog, which could lead to further disruptions at Delhi Airport and other airports in northern India. Travelers are advised to stay informed about weather conditions and plan accordingly.
While measures like advanced navigation systems and improved communication can help mitigate delays, the unpredictability of nature continues to challenge the efficiency of air travel during Delhi’s foggy season.
