Dense Fog Disrupts Flight Operations Across Northern and Eastern India

On January 1, 2026, dense fog significantly disrupted flight operations across northern and eastern India, particularly affecting major airports in New Delhi, Ranchi, Bhubaneswar, and Guwahati. Visibility dropped to as low as 50 meters at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport, leading airlines to issue advisories and warnings for passengers. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) had forecasted continued fog and cold wave conditions, exacerbating the already poor air quality in the region.

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Airlines, including Air India and IndiGo, reported widespread cancellations and delays due to the adverse weather. Air India announced potential cascading delays and cancellations, advising passengers to check flight statuses and consider rescheduling or refunds through its "FogCare" initiative. IndiGo echoed similar sentiments, urging travelers to remain updated on their flight details and providing options for rebooking or refunds if flights were impacted.

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On New Year's Eve, the situation was equally dire, with 148 flights canceled and over 200 delayed at Delhi airport alone. The Ministry of Civil Aviation emphasized the importance of passengers checking flight statuses and allowing extra travel time due to the prevailing conditions.

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

The dense fog was compounded by poor air quality, with Delhi's Air Quality Index (AQI) recorded at 372, categorizing it as "very poor." The combination of fog, pollution, and low temperatures created hazardous conditions for both air travel and daily life. The IMD predicted that fog would persist in various regions, including Punjab, Haryana, and Uttar Pradesh, until January 8, 2026.

Delhi-NCR rings in New Year with very poor AQI amid light rain forecast; Air India warns of flight disruptions

Passengers expressed frustration over the travel disruptions, particularly during the holiday season. The Ministry of Civil Aviation's advisory highlighted the need for airlines to comply with passenger facilitation norms, including timely information and support for delayed travelers. Critics pointed out that the lack of timely updates from airlines contributed to confusion and inconvenience for many travelers.

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

While many sources reported significant flight disruptions, there were discrepancies in the exact number of cancellations and delays. For instance, reports indicated that up to 134 flights were affected on January 1, while other sources mentioned figures exceeding 200 delays on previous days. Additionally, the IMD's forecasts varied slightly regarding the duration and intensity of fog conditions across different regions.

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

• “Weather forecasts for tomorrow morning indicate low visibility due to fog in parts of northern India, including Delhi, which may impact flight schedules across the network,” — Air India

The Straits Times

• “We request you to stay updated on your flight status via our website or app. Be assured, our teams are here to assist you at every step and ensure support. Here is hoping clearer skies help us serve you better soon, and thank you for your patience and understanding during this challenging time,” — IndiGo

The Straits Times

• “Amid prevailing fog and low-visibility conditions impacting flights in parts of Northern India, passengers are advised to proactively check flight status, remain in contact with their airlines and allow extra travel time.” — Ministry of Civil Aviation

Delhi engulfed in dense smog again! 118 flights cancelled, over 200 delayed as air quality stays ‘severe’

As northern and eastern India continues to grapple with severe weather conditions, authorities and airlines are working to manage the ongoing disruptions while ensuring passenger safety and comfort.

The Straits Times