How is Dense Fog Affecting Flights Across India?
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Synopsis
Flight operations are facing serious disruptions due to dense fog across India, with passengers experiencing delays and diversions. Airports are advising travelers to stay informed about the latest updates as visibility remains critically low.
Key Takeaways
- Dense fog is severely impacting flight operations across India.
- Passengers are advised to check flight statuses regularly.
- The official fog window is set from December 10 to February 10, 2026.
- Airlines are warning of potential delays and cancellations.
- Assistance teams are available at airports for passenger support.
New Delhi, Dec 29 (NationPress) Flight operations throughout various regions of the country faced significant disruption as thick fog drastically decreased visibility, leaving travelers stranded and anxious at numerous airports.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has designated the timeframe from December 10 to February 10, 2026, as the formal fog window for the current season.
At the Delhi airport, visibility plummeted to approximately 125 metres, severely affecting flight operations.
In a passenger advisory posted on X, the Delhi Airport noted that "flight operations are currently being conducted under CAT III conditions due to dense fog, which may lead to delays or cancellations."
The airport authority also encouraged travelers to stay informed by checking their flight status with their respective airlines.
Numerous incoming flights to Delhi were redirected due to poor visibility, air traffic congestion, and subsequent delays, further inconveniencing passengers.
Airlines have also issued warnings about potential cancellations and delays.
IndiGo shared an update on X stating, "Dense fog in Jammu continues to impact visibility, influencing flights to and from Jammu. As conditions change, some services may experience delays, and a few may need to be cancelled depending on clearance and operational feasibility."
SpiceJet provided its last update around midnight, informing travelers about disruptions in Kolkata.
"Due to adverse weather (poor visibility) in Kolkata (CCU), all departures/arrivals and their subsequent flights may be affected. Passengers are advised to monitor their flight status," the airline stated.
Air India also warned travelers that routes across North India, including its main hub in Delhi, are likely to be affected due to low visibility caused by dense fog.
The airline cautioned that this could create a ripple effect on flight schedules across its domestic network.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) issued a comprehensive warning, emphasizing possible disruptions and sharing helpline numbers for passenger assistance.
In a statement, AAI said, "Due to fog today on 29.12.2025, visibility levels in Northern India have decreased at certain airports potentially affecting flight schedules, including delays. Passengers are encouraged to stay connected with their respective airlines through official channels for the latest updates and to plan their travel accordingly by allowing extra time for airport arrivals and check-in processes."
"AAI has initiated passenger facilitation measures and deployed support teams at affected airports to assist travelers on the ground. We remain dedicated to ensuring passenger safety, comfort, and seamless airport operations during adverse weather conditions," it added.
In one incident, an Air India Express flight from Goa to Delhi could not land in the national capital early Monday morning due to the dense fog.
The aircraft also failed to land in Jaipur because of similar conditions and was eventually redirected to Ahmedabad, where it landed safely.
However, passengers expressed frustration and anger at Ahmedabad airport over the prolonged diversion, delays, and lack of information, as dense fog continued to disrupt air travel across northern and eastern regions of the country.
Point of View
It is crucial for passengers to remain informed and proactive. The aviation authorities are working diligently to manage flight schedules while ensuring passenger safety. As a national editor, I urge travelers to stay connected with airlines for timely updates and to plan their journeys accordingly.
NationPress
30/12/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
What is causing the flight disruptions in India?
The flight disruptions are primarily due to dense fog that has significantly reduced visibility at various airports across the country.
How long is the fog window expected to last?
The fog window designated by the DGCA is from December 10 to February 10, 2026.
What should passengers do if their flight is affected?
Passengers should check their flight status with their respective airlines and allow extra time for airport arrival and check-in procedures.
Are airlines issuing advisories for delayed flights?
Yes, several airlines, including IndiGo and Air India, have issued advisories warning of potential delays and cancellations due to low visibility.
What assistance is available for affected passengers?
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has deployed assistance teams at affected airports to support travelers during this challenging time.
