Fog and Hazardous Air Trigger Major Flight Delays at Delhi Airport

Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport faces major disruptions. Dense fog and severe air pollution are causing widespread flight delays and cancellations. The situation unfolded on Wednesday, following a day of significant travel chaos. Airport authorities have implemented low-visibility procedures.Passengers are being urged to check their flight status before heading to the terminal. According to airport officials, visibility is improving but delays persist for numerous departures. This ongoing issue highlights the severe winter travel challenges in the capital region.

Low-Visibility Procedures and Travel Advisory Active

Delhi Airport has confirmed that low-visibility protocols are in effect. These measures are standard for safe operations during winter fog. They inevitably slow down all airport movements.The impact on schedules is substantial. Data from Tuesday shows the severity. Over 270 flights were delayed and at least 10 were cancelled that day. Average departure delays stretched to nearly 30 minutes.Passengers face considerable uncertainty. The airport operator, DIAL, advises checking directly with airlines for the latest updates. Real-time information is crucial for travel planning right now.

Hazardous Air Quality Compounds Travel Crisis

The flight disruption is worsened by dangerously poor air quality. Delhi’s Air Quality Index (AQI) registered at 325 on Wednesday. This level is classified as hazardous for public health.Dominant pollutants are fine particulate matter, known as PM2.5 and PM10. Health experts issue strong warnings at these levels. Sensitive groups should avoid outdoor exposure entirely.Residents and travelers are advised to wear masks outside. Reducing prolonged outdoor activity is recommended. The dual crisis of fog and pollution creates a serious public health and logistical challenge.

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Travel through Delhi airport remains severely impacted by persistent fog and poor air quality. Passengers must verify their flight status and allow extra time. The situation underscores the recurring winter infrastructural strain on one of the world’s busiest airports.

Info at your fingertips

How can I check if my Delhi flight is delayed?

Use the Delhi Airport website’s live flight information page. You can also check directly through your airline’s official app or website for the most accurate, real-time status.

Which airlines are most affected by the Delhi fog?

All airlines operating from IGIA are experiencing disruptions. Data from Tuesday showed delays impacting hundreds of flights across carriers like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet.

What is causing the flight delays besides fog?

Severely degraded air quality is a compounding factor. Hazardous pollution levels reduce visibility further and can affect airport operational procedures, extending ground delays.

What should I do if my flight is cancelled?

Contact your airline immediately for rebooking or refund options. Most carriers offer alternate flights or travel vouchers when cancellations are due to weather conditions.

How long are these Delhi airport delays expected to last?

Delays are likely to persist as long as dense fog and poor air quality continue. Meteorological forecasts suggest these conditions are typical for North Indian winters and may recur.

Is it safe to travel to Delhi with the current air quality?

Health experts advise caution, especially for children, the elderly, and those with respiratory conditions. Wearing a high-quality mask (N95/KN95) outdoors is strongly recommended.

Trusted Sources: Reports from Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) air quality data, and airline operational advisories.