Delhi Airport's CAT III Operations Tested as Dense Fog Triggers Flight Chaos.

The Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in Delhi faced significant operational challenges on Saturday as dense fog and an intense cold wave gripped the region. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) reported the temperature plunged to 4.2 degrees Celsius, marking the season's coldest morning so far. This severe weather, combined with a layer of smog, dramatically reduced visibility around the runways, forcing the airport to activate specialized protocols.

Low-Visibility Operations Under CAT III

Airport authorities confirmed that operations were running under Category III (CAT III) conditions. This advanced Instrument Landing System (ILS) is crucial for maintaining safety during low-visibility events. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) mandates its use during the official winter fog season, typically from December 10 to February 10.

CAT III B, the system used at Delhi, allows aircraft to land with a Runway Visual Range (RVR) as low as 50 meters. However, the low visibility procedures (LVP) inherently slow down the movement of air traffic. This is because greater spacing is required between aircraft for both landing and taxiing.

Impact on Airlines and Passengers

The resulting flight delays and cancellations created a ripple effect across the domestic and international network. Airlines were forced to issue advisories to travelers. Major carriers, including Air India and IndiGo, urged passengers to check their flight status before heading to the airport.

• Delays and Cancellations: Visibility fluctuations caused multiple flight disruptions, leading to long wait times.
• Passenger Assistance: Both airlines offered options for rescheduling or full refunds for affected services.
• Crew Rostering: DGCA guidelines require airlines to ensure mandatory rostering of CAT-III qualified flight crew for operations at fog-prone airports. The availability of these specialized pilots is a key factor in minimizing delays.

Broader Weather and Air Quality Context

The cold wave conditions extended beyond the capital, affecting northern and northwestern India. States like Punjab, Haryana, and Rajasthan also reported cold day conditions and dense fog. This widespread weather pattern complicates airline scheduling, as it impacts connecting flights across the region.

Compounding the visibility issue was the poor air quality. The fog combined with a layer of smog, further reducing visibility near the ground. The Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB) reported the overall Air Quality Index (AQI) had surged into the "very poor" category.

The challenge for commercial aviation news is the consistent management of these seasonal weather events. While CAT III technology provides a critical safety buffer, ground operations remain constrained. Aviation stakeholders, including the DGCA and airport operators, must maintain strict adherence to low visibility procedures to ensure safety and operational efficiency during the winter months. For more updates on global air travel, visit [flying.flights].