Severe Fog Disrupts Air Travel in Delhi Amid Cold Weather

Severe fog and cold temperatures have disrupted air travel in Delhi, leading to significant flight cancellations and advisories from airlines. The Ministry of Civil Aviation has mandated airlines to ensure passenger convenience and timely communication. With 118 flights canceled and 16 redirected, the situation remains critical. The CAT-III system allows for safe operations in low visibility, and special teams are deployed to assist affected travelers. Air India has introduced a 'Fog Care' initiative to help passengers with rescheduling and refunds. As the weather continues to pose challenges, an orange alert has been issued for dense fog in the coming days.

By Narendra Chaudhary Dec 30, 2025, 21:02 IST

Impact of Fog on Air Travel

Air travel in the capital city of Delhi has been significantly affected due to light cold and dense fog. In response, the Ministry of Civil Aviation issued strict guidelines to all airlines on Tuesday, emphasizing the need to adhere to passenger convenience regulations. The ministry has also urged travelers to check their flight status before heading to the airport and to allow extra time for their journeys.

Flight Cancellations and Diversions

Several regions in North India are experiencing dense fog and low visibility, which has impacted flight operations. The ministry stated that airlines are responsible for timely communication with passengers, providing meals during delays, offering refunds or rebooking for canceled flights, and ensuring that passengers who check in on time are not denied boarding. Additionally, there is a focus on promptly addressing complaints.

Flight Operations at Delhi Airport

On Tuesday, a total of 118 flights were canceled at Delhi Airport, with 16 flights redirected to other airports. This includes 60 arrivals and 58 departures. Delhi International Airport Limited reported that operations are currently normal; however, aircraft not compliant with CAT-III standards may face more significant disruptions.

CAT-III System and Passenger Assistance

The CAT-III system allows aircraft to land and take off safely even in extremely low visibility conditions. On Monday, the Airport Authority of India announced that special teams have been deployed at affected airports to assist passengers.

Air India Advisory and Passenger Support

In light of the situation, Air India has issued an advisory. The airline is monitoring conditions and has ground staff available to assist passengers in case of delays or cancellations. Under the 'Fog Care' initiative, affected travelers are being informed in advance and offered rescheduling or refunds without additional charges.

Weather Conditions in Delhi

Meanwhile, dense fog continues to blanket Delhi. The minimum temperature recorded on Tuesday was 9.4 degrees Celsius. According to the Central Pollution Control Board, the air quality index in the capital stood at 388, categorizing it as 'very poor.' Air quality was recorded as 'severe' at 16 monitoring stations. The weather department has issued an orange alert for dense fog in the coming days.