Heavy Fog Disrupts Delhi Flights, Over 100 Delays Reported

Thick fog enveloped Delhi-NCR on Saturday morning, significantly impacting flight operations at Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. With visibility dropping to as low as 50 meters at IGI and zero at Hindon commercial airport, travelers faced extensive delays and cancellations.

Flight Operations Affected

As a result of the dense fog, at least 125 departing flights from IGI Airport experienced delays, with an average wait time of 30 minutes. Additionally, seven flights were canceled. Incoming flights were also affected, with 21 arrivals delayed and another seven canceled.

Delhi Airport issued a passenger advisory, cautioning that flights without low-visibility operational capabilities might experience disruptions. Passengers were urged to check with airlines for real-time updates before heading to the airport.

Weather Advisory and Forecast

The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued an ‘orange’ alert for Delhi due to widespread dense fog, with some areas experiencing ‘very dense’ conditions. The forecast predicted a minimum temperature of 10°C and a high of 26°C for the day.

The IMD also indicated that foggy conditions would persist over the weekend, with moderate to dense fog expected. Looking ahead, rain and thunderstorms are forecast for February 3 and 4, bringing potential relief from the foggy weather.

For the upcoming week, temperatures are expected to range between 11°C (minimum) and 23°C (maximum), with slightly warmer conditions compared to seasonal averages. January has already seen higher-than-normal temperatures, with the month's highest reaching 21.1°C, surpassing the long-term average of 20.1°C.

Air Quality Concerns

Apart from the weather disruptions, air quality in Delhi remained a major concern. At 7 am, the Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at Okhla stood at 354, categorizing it as ‘very poor.’ An AQI in this range can cause respiratory discomfort, particularly for sensitive groups.

Travel Advisory

With ongoing foggy conditions and potential weather changes ahead, travelers are advised to stay updated on flight schedules and plan accordingly. Checking real-time flight statuses and preparing for possible delays can help mitigate travel inconveniences.

As Delhi navigates through fluctuating winter conditions, authorities continue to monitor the situation, providing updates on weather patterns and air quality to ensure public awareness and safety.