Will Dense Fog Ground Flights at Delhi Airport Amid Republic Day Security?

ByUjjwal Sukhwani•January 18, 2026 at 01:30 AM•3 min read

AIRPORTS

Will Dense Fog Ground Flights at Delhi Airport Amid Republic Day Security?

Delhi Airport issued a passenger advisory for dense fog and low visibility, warning of flight disruptions compounded by enhanced Republic Day security measures.

Key Points

1Delhi Airport issued a passenger advisory on January 17, 2026, for dense morning fog expected to continue, citing the India Meteorological Department.
2Low visibility conditions may impact flight operations despite the use of advanced CAT III B Instrument Landing System (ILS) technology.
3Enhanced Republic Day security measures and a NOTAM for daily airspace closure compound the disruption, requiring passengers to plan extra travel time.
4Airport capacity can be reduced by up to 40% during low visibility procedures, leading to cascading delays across domestic and international networks.

The Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) in New Delhi has issued a passenger advisory. This warning covers potential flight disruptions due to dense morning fog. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasts continued low visibility conditions. Passengers are urged to check their flight status with their respective airlines.

Operational Challenges from Low Visibility

Dense fog is a common winter challenge for northern India's aviation sector. Low visibility conditions can significantly impact flight schedules. Airport operations staff indicate that these procedures can reduce runway movements. Capacity may drop by as much as 40% during periods of heavy fog. This reduction stretches aircraft turnaround times and causes cascading delays.

CAT III B Technology

Delhi Airport is equipped with advanced Instrument Landing System (ILS) technology. It utilizes CAT III B operations to maintain traffic flow. CAT III B allows aircraft to land with a Runway Visual Range (RVR) as low as 50 meters. This makes Indira Gandhi International Airport one of India's most advanced for all-weather flying. However, not all airlines or pilots are certified for CAT III B landings. Flights without the proper certification may face delays or diversions. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) mandates pilot qualification for these minima.

Compounding Security Measures

The fog advisory coincides with heightened Republic Day security protocols. Enhanced security measures are in place across the airport terminals. Passengers must plan extra travel time for a smooth experience. Additional Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel have been deployed. Road checkpoints near the airport may also cause ground transport delays.

Furthermore, the government has issued a Notice to Airmen (NOTAM). This NOTAM halts all arrivals and departures for a period daily. The closures are for Republic Day air-show rehearsals from January 21 to 26. This convergence of weather and security creates a dual challenge for airlines.

Airline and Stakeholder Response

Airlines are actively managing the situation to minimize passenger inconvenience. Carriers like IndiGo have issued their own travel advisories. They are working to coordinate slot swaps to protect long-haul departures. Ground teams are coordinating with all stakeholders across terminals. This includes Air Traffic Control (ATC) and the DGCA.

Passengers should arrive at least three hours before domestic departures.
Four hours is recommended for international flights until January 27.
Travelers must reconfirm flight status directly with their airline.
The DGCA has instructed airlines to activate Emergency Control Rooms.
These rooms help address passenger complaints and manage flight movement.

This operational complexity highlights the need for advanced infrastructure. It also stresses the importance of clear communication during winter fog season.

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