Low Visibility Grounds 40 to 100 Flights in Delhi, Airlines Ask Passengers to Check Status

New Delhi: The first glimpse of winter in Delhi surprised everyone. On the morning of December 15, the city woke up wrapped in a thick fog and poisonous smog. Visibility is next to none, roads are deserted, and the air is poisonous. The air quality index crosses 450-500 in the 'severe' category. There was a queue of flights at Indira Gandhi International Airport, but the flights were stopped.  

How dense was the fog, and where did visibility disappear?

Visibility reached near zero at some places in the early morning. AQI up to 493-500 in areas like Anand Vihar, Akshardham, and Dwarka. The city's average AQI is 454-474, 'Severe.' The cold increased; the temperature dropped to 8-9 degrees. IMD issued an orange alert. Vehicles are moving slowly on the roads, and trains are late. But air travel is hit the hardest—will this fog remain throughout the day?

What is the situation at the airport?

Operation of flights remains difficult due to dense fog at Delhi's IGI Airport. The airport is currently operating in CAT-III mode, allowing aircraft to land even in low visibility. But the flights that do not have this facility have been affected the most. Many flights are delayed, some have had to be cancelled and some have been diverted to other cities.

How many flights were affected?

According to the information, 40 to 100 flights have been cancelled and more than 300 flights are running much behind schedule. Indigo already canceled some flights so that passengers do not have to wait for hours at the airport. Air India and SpiceJet have also issued advisories to passengers to remain alert. In such a situation, if you have a flight, then definitely check its status before leaving.

What did the airlines say? What advice did they give to passengers?

Delhi Airport said, "There may be disruption due to fog; please contact airlines." Indigo's message: "Low visibility, some flights delayed or cancelled. Safety first, bring extra time." Air India: "Fog impact in Northern India, check flight status." Everyone appealed to the same thing—take updates from the website or app and reach the airport early.

What will the weather be like ahead, and when will we get relief?

According to IMD, fog will remain for a few more days, but the sky may gradually become clear. AQI may shift from 'severe' to 'very poor.' GRAP-4 implemented, construction ban, hybrid classes. But the real relief comes when the wind speed increases. For now, wear a mask, stay home, and keep checking travel plans. This winter in Delhi is challenging like every year, but hopefully it becomes normal soon. Passengers, be careful – safety first!