Severe Weather Disrupts Air Traffic at Delhi's IGI Airport
Weather Conditions Impact Air Travel
The sudden change in weather in Delhi has significantly affected air traffic operations. On Sunday evening, strong winds reaching speeds of 70 kilometers per hour, accompanied by a storm, created chaos at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI Airport). The impact of these high winds was particularly felt in the open areas of the airport, affecting parked aircraft and ground operations.
Damage Reported to Aircraft
According to sources, some Air India aircraft sustained damage during the storm. It has been reported that the instability of ground support equipment, combined with the strong winds, led to disruptions, prompting the airline to temporarily alter its operational procedures.
Increased Vigilance at the Airport
In response to the severe weather, airport authorities heightened their alertness and instructed ground staff to seek shelter in safe areas. Several flights experienced delays, and some aircraft were safely diverted.
Weather Warnings Issued
Airport officials noted that the meteorological department had previously issued warnings about high winds and thunderstorms. However, the sudden intensity of the winds exacerbated the situation.
Air India Reports Partial Damage
Air India has provided initial reports indicating that some aircraft and ground equipment sustained partial damage. Fortunately, there have been no confirmations of major accidents or serious incidents affecting passenger safety.
Passengers Face Inconvenience
The abrupt weather changes caused significant inconvenience for travelers, with many experiencing long waits due to flight delays. Airport staff worked to keep passengers informed and requested their cooperation during this challenging time.
Meteorological Department's Advisory
The meteorological department had already predicted the likelihood of strong winds and thunderstorms in Delhi and surrounding areas. They urged the public to avoid unnecessary travel during adverse weather conditions and to stay in safe locations.
Gradual Return to Normalcy
Officials reported signs of improvement in weather conditions late at night, and air traffic is gradually being normalized. The airport administration stated that they are continuously monitoring the situation, with safety remaining the top priority.
