Dense fog severely disrupts Delhi-NCR air traffic, causing major flight delays.

Dense fog enveloped the Delhi National Capital Region (NCR) on Thursday morning, leading to severe operational challenges for air traffic control and airlines operating out of Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL). The critically low visibility levels forced numerous flight diversions and cancellations, significantly impacting passenger movement across North India. Airlines reported widespread delays, with ground handling operations slowed dramatically due to safety concerns related to reduced visibility on taxiways and aprons.

The persistent weather conditions necessitated the implementation of low visibility procedures (LVP), though visibility frequently dropped below the minimum required for standard CAT II and CAT III landings in certain periods. This resulted in a cascade effect, backing up arrival and departure slots throughout the morning peak. While the specific number of affected flights remains fluid, major carriers advised passengers to check status updates frequently, warning that disruption could persist throughout the day until weather conditions improved sufficiently.

The disruption was not limited to aviation; rail and road networks across the region also experienced significant bottlenecks and delays, compounding the logistical challenge for travelers attempting to reach or depart from the capital. This annual winter weather pattern continues to pose a major operational challenge for the Indian aviation sector, requiring robust contingency planning for low visibility operations.