Delhi: Dense fog ruptures flight operations at IGI Airport; 10 diversions, 100 delays

New Delhi: In the midst of Delhi's ongoing cold spell, which marked the lowest minimum temperature of the winter season on Sunday, Indira Gandhi International Airport grapples with severe disruptions in flight operations due to dense fog. The last three days have seen a significant drop in temperature, contributing to the prolonged presence of dense fog, causing discomfort for passengers.

Flight operations hit: 10 diversions, 100 delays

The dense fog enveloping the national capital has led to adverse conditions at the airport, resulting in approximately 10 flight diversions and over 100 delays. The low visibility, especially between 4 am and 10 am, prompted officials to halt flight departures entirely, with only 15 arrivals during that period. Under normal weather conditions, the airport manages around 60 departures and arrivals per hour.

IMD issues dense fog alert

According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), this season's dense fog is experiencing an unprecedented and prolonged duration. Visibility at Indira Gandhi International Airport was nearly zero during the crucial morning hours, impacting flight schedules. Officials noted that 10 diversions occurred because the pilots were not trained for CAT III landings on the concerned flights.

Statements from various airlines

IndiGo

IndiGo Airlines acknowledged the impact of low visibility and dense fog on their flight operations, leading to cascading effects throughout the day. The airline expressed regret for any inconvenience caused to passengers and assured efforts to keep them informed about delays and cancellations.

Air India

Air India, specifically the affected AI 185 flight to Vancouver, faced rescheduling due to dense fog. Prolonged waiting times on the aircraft prompted the decision to reschedule the departure, now expected around 11.30 pm, in compliance with flight duty timing requirements. Affected passengers have been provided accommodation.

Vistara, Akasa Air

Vistara and Akasa Air also addressed the impact of dense fog on their operations. Vistara alerted passengers about potential disruptions in arrivals and departures from Delhi due to poor visibility. Akasa Air acknowledged adverse weather conditions in multiple cities, resulting in affected flight schedules and consequential delays on Sunday. Specific flight cancellations were reported in Varanasi.

Fog expected to persist

As bone-chilling temperatures persist, the weather department issues an alert predicting the likelihood of dense fog enduring in isolated pockets of northwest India for the next three to four days. The IMD advises extreme caution for highway travelers, emphasizing the use of fog lights and advocating halts until fog reduction, especially on expressways.