Delhi, December 26, 2023 – The Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi grappled with persistent challenges caused by dense fog, leading to flight delays and diversions for the third consecutive day. As per the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the national capital is anticipated to battle foggy conditions until December 28, with expectations of lingering fog until December 30.
The Delhi Airport Flight Information Display System registered significant disruptions, with approximately 30 flights experiencing delays in both arrivals and departures due to the plummeting visibility caused by the thick fog. Additionally, 12 flights, including 11 to Jaipur and one to Lucknow, were diverted from 6 am to 12 pm.
Airport authorities issued a statement acknowledging the impact on flight operations: “Delhi airport is experiencing delays in both arrivals and departures for about 30 flights, including international, due to dense fog.” Passengers were urged to stay updated by contacting their respective airlines for the latest flight information.
The advisory further highlighted the influence of the CAT III instrument, an anti-fog landing system crucial for flights during poor visibility. Flights not compliant with CAT III standards were likely to face disruptions, adding a layer of complexity to the situation.
Monday witnessed eight flight diversions, seven to Jaipur and one to Ahmedabad, occurring between 6 am and 9 am, indicating the persistent challenges faced by air travel due to the prevailing weather conditions.
IMD reports indicated that beyond Delhi, very dense fog was observed in isolated pockets across Punjab, Haryana, East Uttar Pradesh, West Madhya Pradesh, and Odisha. Moreover, moderate fog prevailed in isolated areas of West Uttar Pradesh, while shallow fog affected pockets in Chandigarh, Bihar, Coastal Andhra Pradesh, and Tripura on Monday morning.
As the weather forecast anticipates foggy conditions until the end of the month, passengers are advised to stay in touch with their airlines for updated schedules and prepare for potential disruptions due to the extended spell of fog.
The adverse weather conditions affecting air travel in and around Delhi serve as a stark reminder of the challenges posed by nature, urging both authorities and travelers to exercise caution and patience during this period of heightened weather-related disruptions.
Sources By Agencies
