Air India’s FogCare Initiative Activates as Dense Fog Disrupts 129 Delhi Flights

Air India has issued a critical travel advisory for passengers. This comes as dense fog blankets Delhi and northern India. The severe weather caused major flight disruptions on Saturday, December 20. Over 120 flights were cancelled at Indira Gandhi International Airport.

The airline’s proactive “FogCare” program is now in effect. This initiative aims to minimize passenger inconvenience during these predictable winter delays. Officials confirm that low visibility procedures are active at the Delhi air hub.

Proactive Measures and Passenger Options

According to airline statements, schedules across its network are affected. Air India is providing advance alerts to passengers booked on flights during the fog window. These passengers have flexible options to manage their travel plans.

They can reschedule their flights without any additional charges. Alternatively, they are eligible for a full refund without any penalty. This policy is a key part of the FogCare initiative launched for the winter season.

Delhi Airport authorities have echoed the advisory. They urged all travelers to contact their airlines directly for real-time updates. The advice is to check flight status before heading to the airport.

Widespread Winter Weather Grips Northern India

The flight chaos coincides with the season’s first severe cold wave. The India Meteorological Department recorded Delhi’s coldest December day so far this year. Maximum temperatures plunged more than 5 degrees Celsius below normal.

Visibility dropped significantly across several northern states. A red alert for dense fog was issued in Uttar Pradesh. The combination of fog and pollutants severely reduced visibility, disrupting normal life.

The broader impact highlights the annual challenge for Indian aviation. While airlines have protocols, dense fog consistently tests airport capacity and operational efficiency. Passengers are advised to plan for potential delays throughout the winter period.

Travelers should monitor official airline communications closely. The Air India fog advisory and FogCare program provide crucial flexibility. Expect continued disruptions until weather conditions improve.

Info at your fingertips

What is Air India’s FogCare initiative?

FogCare is a proactive customer service plan for winter fog. It sends advance alerts to affected passengers and offers free rescheduling or full refunds without penalty for selected flights.

How many flights were cancelled in Delhi on December 20?

At least 129 flights were cancelled at Delhi’s IGI Airport. This included 66 arriving flights and 63 departing flights, according to airport statements.

What should I do if my flight is affected by fog?

Contact your airline immediately for the latest status. If you are an Air India passenger under the FogCare alert, you can change your flight online for free or request a full refund.

Why does fog cause so many flight cancellations?

Dense fog drastically reduces runway visibility below safe operational limits. This prevents take-offs and landings, causing a cascading delay effect across the entire airport schedule.

Are other airlines offering similar flexible policies?

While many airlines issue fog advisories, specific waiver policies vary. Passengers should check their airline’s official website or customer service for the exact terms during weather disruptions.