Dense fog severely disrupted air travel across North India on Monday, 15 December 2025, with Delhi worst affected. Delhi fog flight cancellations reached 228 at Indira Gandhi International Airport, including 131 departures and 97 arrivals. Five flights diverted to nearby airports due to low visibility. Hundreds more faced delays, stranding passengers during peak winter travel.
The India Meteorological Department forecast persistent dense fog and poor visibility across the region. Delhi Airport issued a fog advisory early Tuesday, 16 December 2025, noting operations steadily recovering but some arrivals and departures still impacted.
Dense Fog Delhi Airport Causes Widespread Disruptions
Visibility dropped sharply at dense fog Delhi airport, forcing airlines to ground aircraft not equipped for low-visibility landings. Non-CAT III compliant flights suffered most, as runway visibility fell below safe thresholds.
Delhi Airport posted on X: “Flight operations are steadily recovering, but disruptions may persist for certain departures and arrivals.” Ground staff deployed across terminals to assist passengers. The airport urged travellers to contact airlines for updates.
Air India activated its Fog Care programme, offering complimentary rescheduling or full refunds for affected flights. The airline cited air traffic congestion and parking constraints at Delhi as key factors.
IndiGo advised passengers: “As winter sets in, early mornings across northern India can bring fog that may occasionally slow down flight movements.” Teams monitored conditions closely to minimise inconvenience.
North India fog flights delayed extended beyond Delhi, impacting airports in Punjab, Haryana, Uttar Pradesh, and beyond. Over 300 flights grounded nationwide on Monday, with cascading effects on schedules.
Delhi Airport Fog Advisory Urges Caution
Delhi Airport issued its fog advisory on Tuesday morning, emphasising safety. “While landings and takeoffs continue, flights that are not CAT III compliant may get affected,” the advisory stated earlier in the season, reiterated amid ongoing conditions.
Passengers advised to check flight status before heading to the airport. Low visibility procedures remained in place, with air traffic control coordinating manually where needed.
The disruptions highlight recurring winter challenges in North India. Dense fog often reduces visibility to near zero, affecting millions of travellers annually. Regional connectivity suffers, particularly routes linking Delhi to smaller cities.
Airlines proactively cancelled select flights to avoid prolonged tarmac delays. This approach aligns with Directorate General of Civil Aviation guidelines on passenger facilities during disruptions.
Impact on Passengers and Operations after Delhi Fog Flight Cancellations
Stranded travellers faced long waits, with some flights delayed by hours. Airlines provided assistance, including meals and hotel accommodations where required.
The Ministry of Civil Aviation monitored the situation, issuing alerts for North India airports. Safety remained the priority, with no compromise on operational standards.
Dense fog Delhi airport continues to challenge operators, despite investments in CAT III systems on multiple runways. Full recovery depends on weather improvement.
What’s Next
Fog conditions expected to persist through the week, per IMD forecasts. Dense to very dense fog likely in early mornings across Delhi-NCR and neighbouring states.
Airlines and Delhi Airport will maintain heightened vigilance. Passengers should monitor updates closely.
Delhi fog flight cancellations may ease if visibility improves, but travellers urged to plan extra time. Ongoing advisories will guide operations amid north India fog flights delayed.
Published in SouthAsianDesk, December 16th, 2025
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