Heavy Fog Forces Two IndiGo Flights to Divert from Hyderabad to Gannavaram
Key Points
- 1Two IndiGo flights from Delhi and Mumbai were diverted to Gannavaram Airport (Vijayawada) due to heavy fog at Hyderabad (RGIA).
- 2The diversion was a mandatory flight safety protocol, affecting nearly 400 passengers who landed safely.
- 3The dense fog caused a wider disruption, resulting in 14 total diversions and 19 cancellations at Hyderabad's RGIA on the same day.
- 4The incident falls within the DGCA's official "fog window," requiring airlines to utilize Low Visibility Procedures (LVP) and specialized crews.
Two IndiGo flights faced unexpected diversions on Friday. Both aircraft were scheduled to land in Hyderabad. However, heavy fog blanketed the Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA). This adverse weather conditions necessitated a rerouting.
Safety Diversion
The flights originated from Delhi and Mumbai, India. They were diverted to Gannavaram Airport near Vijayawada. Vijayawada Airport director Lakshmikanth Reddy confirmed the action. The planes could not wait mid-air for conditions to clear. Diversion was a necessary flight safety protocol. Each diverted aircraft carried nearly 200 passengers. All passengers landed safely at Gannavaram Airport.
This incident was part of a wider disruption. Dense fog severely impacted Hyderabad airport operations. RGIA reported a total of 14 diversions that morning. Additionally, 19 cancellations and nine delays occurred.
Regulatory Context and Winter Operations
Weather-related diversions are common in winter. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has set rules. It designates December 10 to February 10 as the "fog window". During this period, airlines must follow low visibility procedures (LVP). LVP requires specially trained pilots and compliant aircraft. Safety remains the top priority for all airlines and regulators. IATA standards emphasize proactive safety measures.
Gannavaram Airport serves as a reliable alternate. It is equipped with an Instrument Landing System (ILS). Its extended 3,360-meter runway handles large aircraft. This capability makes it a suitable diversion point.
Passenger Impact and Resolution
The diversion caused significant passenger flight disruption. Nearly 400 travelers faced unexpected delays. They had to wait for weather clearances at Gannavaram. Airport officials confirmed the flights would depart later. They will proceed to Hyderabad once conditions improve.
Passengers are advised to check their flight status often. Winter fog operations can cause cascading delays across networks. This highlights the challenges in commercial aviation news. For more updates, check the latest aviation news.
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