Delhi wakes up to dense fog; flight operations disrupted, airport and airlines issue advisory

The national capital on Monday woke up to a foggy morning with the air quality hovering in the moderate to poor category, according to data from Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB). Visibility dropped across large stretches of the city, with the India Meteorological Department (IMD) reporting moderate fog conditions in multiple areas.

Areas such as Dhaula Kuan, Akshardham and Dwarka were the worst hit during the morning hours as fog prevailed even after sunrise, news agency ANI reported. The IMD attributed the phenomenon to a strong Western Disturbance influencing north India, which resulted in an unusual combination of dense fog, untimely showers and cold, gusty winds.

Given the prevailing conditions, the IMD issued an Orange Alert for Delhi, warning of major disruptions to road traffic and aviation services. The alert follows a wet Sunday, when light to moderate showers lashed parts of Central and South Delhi, intensifying winter chill across the region.

The impact was quickly felt at major transport hubs. Flight operations at the Indira Gandhi International Airport were affected as shallow to moderate fog continued through the morning. Several flights were delayed, with officials confirming that aircraft were operating under CAT III conditions, the highest category of the Instrument Landing System used during extremely low visibility.

In a post on X at around 7 am, Delhi airport said, “Flight operations are taking place under CAT III conditions due to dense fog, and delays in arrival and departure can be expected. Passengers are advised to contact their airlines for flight information or visit our website. Please be assured that our on-ground officers are available at all terminals to provide any assistance required.”

Although CAT III allows aircraft to land when runway visibility is extremely low, not all aircraft and pilots are certified for such operations. This often triggers a chain of delays and cancellations, a familiar situation for Delhi during the peak winter season.

Road commuters also faced hazardous conditions. Motorists on the DND Flyway and the Delhi–Gurgaon Expressway were advised to drive cautiously, use fog lights and maintain reduced speeds as visibility fluctuated sharply during the morning hours.

Airlines issued advisories as well. IndiGo cautioned passengers about possible disruptions due to low visibility over Delhi. In a statement shared on social media, the airline said it was closely monitoring weather conditions and urged travellers to regularly check flight status via its website or mobile app. IndiGo added that its teams were on standby and that passenger safety remained its top priority.

Weather officials said fog and low-visibility conditions may continue intermittently as the Western Disturbance moves across the region. Commuters and travellers have been advised to allow extra buffer time for journeys and stay alert to updates from airlines and transport authorities.