Dense fog engulfing the national capital on Monday morning caused major disruptions at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, with visibility dropping to as low as 50 metres, leading to widespread flight delays, cancellations and diversions.
Airlines including IndiGo and Air India issued advisories, warning passengers of possible schedule changes. The airport is currently operating under Category-III conditions, which permit aircraft landings in very low visibility. Passengers have been advised to check flight status before leaving for the airport and allow extra travel time.
In a travel advisory, IndiGo said it is closely monitoring the situation and making necessary operational adjustments.
“Delhi and Hindon Airport continue to remain wrapped in chilly winter air and lingering fog this morning. Fluctuating visibility has led to changes in flight schedules, and operations may be slower than usual. Our teams are prioritising safety and compliance with visibility requirements,” the airline said, advising passengers to regularly track their flight status.
As per early morning reports, nearly 65 per cent of departures from IGI Airport were delayed, with high cancellation rates expected throughout the day. Several flights were also diverted. An Air India Express flight from Goa was forced to land in Ahmedabad after it could not land in Delhi or Jaipur due to dense fog and air traffic congestion, causing inconvenience to passengers.
The fog is expected to gradually clear, with visibility likely to improve to around 100 metres by 8:30 am and up to 1,000 metres by early afternoon. Airlines said operations would stabilise once weather conditions improve.
Meanwhile, Delhi witnessed chilly conditions and dense fog across several areas, including Anand Vihar, Dhaula Kuan, Akshardham, Dwarka and Kartavya Path, significantly reducing visibility on roads. Motorists were seen driving with headlights on, adding to commuters’ discomfort.
The situation was further aggravated by deteriorating air quality, with Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) touching 402 at 8 am, slipping into the ‘severe’ category, according to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Several areas recorded AQI levels well above 400, with Anand Vihar at 455, Wazirpur at 443, Rohini at 442, Punjabi Bagh at 426 and Patparganj at 431. (Agencies)
