Delhi woke up to dense fog and heavy smog on Monday, disrupting flight operations at the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) as visibility dropped sharply in the early hours.
According to news agency UNI, low visibility led to the cancellation of at least 61 flights, while five others were diverted. Several more flights were delayed as fog conditions worsened around the airport.
Flights disrupted as dense fog hits IGI Airport
In response, the Ministry of Civil Aviation issued a heavy fog alert for Delhi and other airports across northern India, urging passengers to check their flight status before travelling and to allow extra time at airports.
“Delhi and other airports are experiencing dense fog, severely affecting visibility. Passengers are advised to check the latest flight status with their airlines and remain patient, as safety is our top priority,” the ministry said in a post on X, adding that airport teams and air traffic control were working to minimise disruptions.
Airlines issue advisories amid low visibility
Airlines also issued advisories throughout the morning. IndiGo said low visibility would impact flight schedules and asked passengers to stay updated via its website or app. Air India similarly warned travellers to check flight status before heading to the airport.
IndiGo posted, “Low visibility and fog over Delhi will impact flight schedules. We’re keeping a close watch on the weather and doing our best to get you where you need to be, safely and smoothly. We request you to stay updated on your flight status via our website or app. Be assured, our teams are here to assist you at every step and ensure support.”
“Here’s hoping clearer skies help us serve you better soon and thank you for your patience and understanding during this challenging time,” added IndiGo.
Meanwhile, Air India also issued a travel advisory: “Poor visibility due to dense fog is impacting flight operations in Delhi and parts of Northern India. Please check your flight status at: http://airindia.com/in/en/manage/flight-status.html before heading to the airport.”
Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) said flight operations were continuing but cautioned that services not equipped for CAT III operations, which allow aircraft to land in very low visibility, could face delays or diversions.
First major winter fog spell of the season
The dense fog marked the first major winter fog spell of the season in the national capital. Visibility at Palam dropped to around 100 metres early morning and was expected to fall further, affecting both arrivals and departures.
Pollution worsens as smog blankets Delhi-NCR
The weather disruption came amid a severe pollution episode across Delhi-NCR. A thick layer of smog covered large parts of the city, pushing air quality into the ‘severe’ category.
Air quality in Delhi remained extremely poor on Monday morning. Data from the Air Quality Early Warning System showed the AQI at 457 at 6 am, with pollution levels even higher in several parts of the city.
The AQI was 493 in Akshardham and 469 in Dwarka Sector-14, both classed as ‘severe’ by the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
At Wazirpur, Rohini and Ashok Vihar, the 24-hour average AQI reached 500, the highest level shown by pollution monitors.
An AQI above 400 is considered ‘severe’. Readings of 450 and higher fall under ‘severe plus’, which is seen as extremely dangerous.
Stage IV GRAP curbs enforced across NCR
As air pollution rose to dangerous levels, authorities enforced Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) across the NCR. This is the toughest set of pollution curbs and includes stopping construction work and putting stricter limits on vehicles that cause heavy pollution.
Officials also said foggy weather may continue for the next few days, which could affect flight schedules. Passengers have been advised to check their flight status and plan their travel in advance.