Visibility was greatly reduced due to dense fog in Delhi and many parts of North India on Friday, which is affecting flight services at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport. According to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD), on December 18, visibility in Delhi was reduced to only 100 meters at around 6 am. At least 27 flights were canceled and more than 500 flights were delayed. Along with fog, pollution has also increased in Delhi, due to which the situation of smog persists.
Warning of delay or change in schedule of early flights
Indigo issued an advisory early in the morning that visibility is reducing due to morning fog in North India. This may cause delay or change in schedule of initial flights. Airlines are monitoring the weather and coordinating with air traffic control to ensure minimum inconvenience to passengers. Indigo said that this is a seasonal problem and they are ensuring safe operations.
SpiceJet also warned that due to low visibility in Delhi, all incoming, outgoing flights and subsequent flights may be affected. Passengers have been appealed to check flight status.
CAT III process started at Delhi Airport
This is a special system that allows safe landing and takeoff of aircraft even in very low visibility. The airport team is working with all concerned parties to help the passengers and provide continuous updates. The airport asked passengers to check flight status and arrive with extra time.
Air India predicted dense fog
Air India said in its advisory that the Meteorological Department has predicted dense fog in Delhi, North India and parts of East India. This may impact flight schedules and cause a chain reaction of delays in the entire network. Airlines have already taken steps to reduce the problem.
Alerts are being sent to affected passengers in advance. They can change the flight or get a full refund without paying any extra charges. Ground staff will help make alternative arrangements in case of delay or cancellation. Passengers are requested to check flight status before going to the airport.
Contact airlines if flights are delayed or canceled
The effect of fog is not limited to Delhi only, but is also affecting many airports in North and East India. There may be an impact of delay in the entire network, due to which connecting flights may also be delayed. The situation is getting worse due to increase in smog due to pollution. Passengers are appealed to be patient, constantly check flight updates and use the airlines’ website or app. If the flight is affected then contact the airlines.
