Dense fog engulfed Delhi-NCR on Monday morning, severely disrupting flight operations at the Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. Nearly 200 flights were delayed and six were cancelled as visibility dropped to near zero, forcing airlines and airport authorities to activate low-visibility safety protocols.
According to flight tracking data, at least 144 departing flights and 51 arriving flights were delayed by around 8:45 am. The dense fog led to the implementation of CAT III landing procedures, which allow aircraft to land safely in extremely poor visibility conditions. Despite this advanced system, flight schedules were impacted, causing inconvenience to hundreds of passengers.
Delhi Airport authorities issued an advisory stating that operations were continuing under CAT III conditions and that delays or cancellations could not be ruled out. Ground staff were deployed to assist stranded passengers and manage on-ground operations smoothly. Passengers were advised to stay in touch with their respective airlines for the latest updates before heading to the airport.
Several airlines also issued travel advisories. IndiGo said fluctuating visibility had slowed operations at both Delhi and Hindon airports, adding that normal schedules would resume once weather conditions improved. Air India and SpiceJet also urged passengers to check flight status in advance and allow extra time for airport procedures.
The weather disruption comes amid a cold wave gripping north India. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has predicted dense to very dense fog during night and early morning hours across Delhi, Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Himachal Pradesh and parts of Uttar Pradesh over the next few days. An orange alert has been issued for Delhi on December 29.
The maximum temperature in the capital is expected to hover around 22 degrees Celsius, while the minimum may drop to 7 degrees Celsius. Authorities have advised commuters and travellers to remain cautious, as foggy conditions and poor air quality continue to affect daily life in the national capital.
