Full Breakdown
Disruptions in Air Travel Due to Technical Failures and Weather Conditions
1/5/2026, 12:33:39 AM
Bergamo Airport Flight Halts
On January 4, 2026, Bergamo Orio al Serio Airport, a key hub for Ryanair flights to Milan, experienced significant disruptions due to a technical failure in its landing guidance system, compounded by poor visibility. The incident began around 1700 GMT on January 2, leading to the suspension of all flights. The airport operator, SACBO, reported that the technical issue was resolved by midnight, but warned that delays and cancellations could continue as airlines worked to manage the backlog. In total, 26 flights were cancelled, six were diverted to other airports, and seven were rescheduled for the following day. Many passengers were left stranded overnight, with reports of individuals sleeping on the airport floor amid limited services.
Broader Impact of Weather on Flight Operations
The situation at Bergamo is part of a larger pattern of flight disruptions across various airports in India and Canada due to adverse weather conditions. In Delhi, for instance, dense fog led to the cancellation of at least 148 flights and delays for over 150 others on December 31, 2025. The Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) reported that visibility was improving, but ongoing fog conditions were expected to continue affecting operations. Similarly, Hyderabad's Rajiv Gandhi International Airport faced multiple cancellations and diversions due to low visibility, with at least 14 diversions and 19 cancellations reported on January 2.
Official Statements & Responses
SACBO stated that they were working to resolve the technical issues at Bergamo Airport and advised passengers to stay updated on flight statuses. The Civil Aviation Ministry in India emphasized the importance of airlines adhering to passenger service norms during delays, including timely information and assistance for rebooking or refunds.
Criticism & Opposition
Critics have raised concerns about the preparedness of airports to handle such disruptions, particularly during the winter months when fog is prevalent. Passengers expressed frustration over the lack of timely communication and support from airlines during the chaotic situations at both Bergamo and Indian airports.
Conflicting Reports & Gaps
While reports from Bergamo consistently indicate that the technical issue was resolved by midnight, there is no consensus on the extent of the impact on flight operations moving forward. Additionally, the number of flights affected at other airports varies across sources, highlighting discrepancies in reporting.
Verbatim Quotes
“flights may be delayed or cancelled” — SACBO, Airport Operator
“Airlines have been instructed to strictly adhere to passenger service norms, including timely information, assistance during delays, rebooking or refunds where applicable, and baggage facilitation,” — Civil Aviation Ministry, India
“Thousands spent the night at the airport, with images showing people sleeping on the floor and baggage check-in belts.” — Local Media Report
As air travel continues to be affected by both technical failures and weather conditions, passengers are advised to remain vigilant and check for updates from their airlines.
