Significant disruptions have impacted flight operations at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), affecting the travel plans of hundreds of passengers. The issues, which began on Monday, December 16, 2024, have led to a cascade of delays and cancellations across multiple airlines.
Widespread Impact on Flight Schedules
Passengers faced considerable inconvenience as over 100 flights were reported to be either delayed or cancelled. The disruptions created long queues at airline counters and customer service desks as travelers scrambled for information and alternative arrangements. The airport, one of the busiest in the country, saw its usual smooth operations severely hampered throughout the day.
The problems were not isolated to a single terminal or airline but created a ripple effect across the airport's ecosystem. Sources indicated that the disruptions were linked to a combination of factors, including unexpected technical issues and logistical challenges, though official statements from airport authorities were initially limited.
Airlines Scramble to Manage Passenger Fallout
Major Indian carriers were forced to activate their contingency plans and issue advisories to the public.
Air India confirmed facing operational challenges, advising passengers to check their flight status before heading to the airport. The national carrier assured that its teams were working to minimize the impact and accommodate affected travelers on subsequent flights where possible.
IndiGo, India's largest airline by market share, also reported multiple delays. The airline used its social media channels and website to update passengers in real-time, urging them to monitor their flight status via the IndiGo website or mobile app for the most current information.
SpiceJet acknowledged disruptions affecting its schedule to and from Delhi. The budget airline stated it was complying with all directives from airport authorities and was making every effort to normalize operations at the earliest.
Passenger Advisory and Looking Ahead
In response to the situation, a general advisory was issued for all passengers scheduled to travel via Delhi's IGI Airport:
- Contact your airline directly via their official customer care numbers or website before leaving for the airport.
- Do not rely solely on third-party booking agents for updates; check the airline's official platform.
- Allow for considerable extra time for travel to the airport and for check-in processes due to anticipated crowds.
- Understand your rights as per the DGCA's Civil Aviation Requirements (CAR) regarding cancellations and long delays.
While airport and airline officials worked to resolve the underlying issues, the incident on December 16, 2024, highlights the vulnerability of complex aviation hubs to cascading disruptions. It serves as a reminder for travelers to always have contingency plans, especially during peak travel periods. The focus for authorities now is on restoring full normalcy and ensuring such widespread disruptions are mitigated more effectively in the future.
