Dense Fog Disrupts Air Travel Across Northern and Eastern India

On January 1, 2026, dense fog severely impacted flight operations across northern and eastern India, particularly affecting major airports in Delhi, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar, and Guwahati. Visibility was drastically reduced, prompting airlines to issue advisories urging passengers to check flight statuses and prepare for potential delays and cancellations. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) forecasted continued foggy conditions, with visibility expected to improve only slightly throughout the day.

The Straits TimesThe StatesmanDense Fog Disrupts Air Travel Across North India, 148 Flights Cancelled at Delhi AirportBlinding fog cripples Delhi, north India as visibility plunges, flights hit again—Latest updates from IndiGo, Air IndiaAir India, IndiGo warn of impact on flight schedules amid IMD's dense fog forecast in Delhi, North India on 31 DecemberDense fog disrupts flights across North India; airlines issue advisoryDelhi vanishes in year end fogThe Hindu

At Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), visibility dropped to as low as 50 meters, leading to significant disruptions. Reports indicated that 150 flights were canceled and over 250 delayed on December 31, 2025, with similar conditions persisting into the New Year. Airlines such as Air India and IndiGo warned passengers of cascading delays and advised them to utilize their rebooking or refund options if flights were affected. The Civil Aviation Ministry emphasized the need for airlines to adhere to passenger service norms during these disruptions.

Blinding fog cripples Delhi, north India as visibility plunges, flights hit again—Latest updates from IndiGo, Air IndiaThe HinduThe StatesmanDense Fog Disrupts Air Travel Across North India, 148 Flights Cancelled at Delhi AirportThe Straits TimesAir India, IndiGo warn of impact on flight schedules amid IMD's dense fog forecast in Delhi, North India on 31 DecemberDelhi vanishes in year end fog

Airlines responded proactively to the adverse weather conditions. Air India implemented its 'FogCare' initiative, which provided passengers with advance alerts about potential disruptions, options for rescheduling flights at no extra cost, or full refunds. IndiGo also communicated that operations would be slower than usual and encouraged travelers to stay updated on their flight statuses. SpiceJet issued similar advisories, cautioning passengers about delays at various airports, including those in Ayodhya and Dharamshala.

Blinding fog cripples Delhi, north India as visibility plunges, flights hit again—Latest updates from IndiGo, Air IndiaThe Straits TimesThe StatesmanDense Fog Disrupts Air Travel Across North India, 148 Flights Cancelled at Delhi AirportDelhi vanishes in year end fogAir India, IndiGo warn of impact on flight schedules amid IMD's dense fog forecast in Delhi, North India on 31 DecemberThe HinduDense fog disrupts flights across North India; airlines issue advisory

The IMD reported that colder and foggier days are expected to continue in northern India, with minimum temperatures likely to be 2-4°C below normal. Dense fog is predicted to persist during the night and morning hours, particularly in Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and Odisha. The IMD has designated the period from December 10 to February 10 as the official fog season, during which travel disruptions are common.

New Year 2026: Delhiites to witness dense fog on Jan 1, IMD also predicts light rainfall as winter intensifiesCold, dense fog to persist across north India, says IMDDelhi vanishes in year end fogDense Fog Disrupts Air Travel Across North India, 148 Flights Cancelled at Delhi AirportAir India, IndiGo warn of impact on flight schedules amid IMD's dense fog forecast in Delhi, North India on 31 DecemberDense fog disrupts flights across North India; airlines issue advisoryThe Straits Times

Passengers faced significant inconveniences due to the weather conditions, with many stranded at airports. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) deployed ground teams to assist travelers and urged them to arrive earlier than usual for their flights. The situation has drawn criticism from some travelers regarding the airlines' communication and handling of the disruptions.

The Hindu

• “Weather forecasts indicate low visibility across parts of northern India tomorrow morning, which may impact flight schedules across the network,” — Air India

Dense fog disrupts flights across North India; airlines issue advisory

• “If your flight is impacted, you can conveniently rebook your journey or claim a refund,” — IndiGo

Blinding fog cripples Delhi, north India as visibility plunges, flights hit again—Latest updates from IndiGo, Air India

• “Due to prevailing dense fog conditions, flight operations are currently being conducted under CAT III protocols, which may result in delays or cancellations.” — Delhi Airport

Delhi vanishes in year end fog

The dense fog affecting northern and eastern India has led to widespread flight disruptions, with airlines and authorities working to manage the situation. Passengers are advised to remain vigilant and check for updates as weather conditions evolve. The IMD's forecasts suggest that these challenging weather patterns may continue, further complicating travel plans in the region.

Air India, IndiGo warn of impact on flight schedules amid IMD's dense fog forecast in Delhi, North India on 31 December