Dense Fog Grips Delhi-NCR, Disrupts Flights; IGI Airport Issues Travel Advisory

Delhi-NCR woke up on Monday to one of the season’s most severe spells of dense fog and toxic smog, triggering widespread travel disruptions. Large parts of Delhi, Noida, Ghaziabad, and adjoining NCR areas were engulfed in thick fog before sunrise, reducing visibility on roads and highways and slowing early morning traffic. The foggy conditions directly impacted aviation operations, prompting advisories from IGI Airport and major airlines.

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported that the minimum temperature in the capital dropped to 8.2 degrees Celsius overnight, creating ideal conditions for fog. An orange alert for dense fog was issued, advising caution during travel. At the same time, Delhi’s air quality deteriorated further, slipping into the ‘Severe Plus’ category, with the Air Quality Index (AQI) crossing 450 and reaching 500 in Ashok Vihar in the early hours.

Delhi IGI Airport Issues Advisory As Dense Fog Reduces Visibility

As visibility dropped to near-zero levels in the early morning, Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport issued a travel advisory warning passengers of possible flight disruptions. Airport authorities reported that dense fog was affecting aircraft movements and ground operations, causing delays for both departures and arrivals.

In its advisory, Delhi Airport stated it was working closely with airlines, air traffic control and other stakeholders to minimise inconvenience. Passengers were advised to check their flight status with the respective airlines before heading to the airport and to allow extra travel time due to fog-affected road conditions. 

So far, more than 150 flights have been delayed, including 43 arrivals and 107 departures. The numbers are likely to rise during the day.

IndiGo Issues Travel Advisory Amid Dense Fog In Delhi

IndiGo, India’s largest domestic airline, cautioned passengers that reduced visibility at IGI Airport could lead to longer waiting times and delayed departures. In a post on X, the airline said Delhi was experiencing its first significant spell of winter fog this season.

“Visibility around the airport is currently reduced. As operations adjust to the changing weather, some flights may take a little longer to depart,” IndiGo said. The airline also warned that road traffic could move more slowly due to fog and urged passengers to factor in extra time while travelling to the airport. IndiGo added that its teams were closely monitoring weather conditions to ensure safe operations.

Air India Issues Advisory Due To Fog In Delhi

Air India also acknowledged that dense fog was impacting flight operations in Delhi and across parts of northern India. The national carrier said poor visibility could lead to delays and schedule changes, especially during early morning and late-night hours.

In its advisory, Air India urged passengers to stay updated on their flight status through official channels and to cooperate with ground staff. The airline emphasised that safety remained the top priority amid weather-related disruptions.

Delhi Airport Travel Advisory: Passengers Asked To Plan Ahead

With the onset of fog season across northern India, airlines and airport authorities have urged passengers to stay flexible with their travel plans. Flyers have been advised to stay informed through airline notifications, allow extra time for airport procedures, and avoid last-minute travel to the terminal.

Weather officials have indicated that dense fog is likely to persist over the coming days, raising the possibility of continued flight disruptions at IGI Airport. Until visibility improves, passengers travelling to and from Delhi are advised to monitor updates and follow all safety advisories issued by airlines and authorities. 

(With inputs from various sources)

FAQs

1. Why are flights delayed at Delhi’s IGI Airport today? 
Dense fog and reduced visibility have affected aircraft movements and ground operations. 

2. Has IGI Airport issued a travel advisory? 
Yes, Delhi’s IGI Airport has advised passengers to check flight status and allow extra travel time. 

3. Which airlines have issued advisories due to Delhi fog? 
IndiGo and Air India have both issued advisories warning of possible delays. 

4. How many flights have been delayed due to fog in Delhi? 
More than 150 flights have been delayed so far, including arrivals and departures. 

5. What has IMD said about the fog conditions in Delhi? 
IMD issued an orange alert for dense fog, citing low temperatures and poor visibility. 

6. Will fog continue to affect flights in Delhi? 
Weather officials have indicated that dense fog may persist over the coming days.