More than fifty IndiGo flights were cancelled across India on Tuesday, 16 December, as severe weather conditions, primarily dense fog and poor visibility in northern regions, severely disrupted air travel. The country's largest airline and airport authorities have warned passengers to prepare for additional delays as operations slowly return to normal.
Weather Woes Ground IndiGo Fleet
Adverse weather during the early morning hours significantly impacted flight movements, forcing IndiGo to cancel services on multiple routes within its network. The airline directly attributed the widespread cancellations to low visibility caused by thick fog blanketing parts of northern India. Such conditions critically slow down aircraft operations, especially during the crucial phases of take-off and landing, which often results in a domino effect of delays and subsequent cancellations.
Airline Issues Passenger Advisory
In response to the chaos, IndiGo proactively issued an advisory, urging travellers to plan ahead and stay updated. The airline communicated that it was providing advance updates to help passengers manage their itineraries smoothly. It strongly recommended that flyers check the real-time status of their flights on the official IndiGo website for the most accurate information.
The carrier assured the public that its teams were on high alert, closely monitoring the evolving weather situation. Operational decisions were being made on the ground to minimise passenger inconvenience wherever feasible. IndiGo also stated that efforts were underway to ensure comfortable waiting times for affected passengers at airports.
Delhi Airport Grapples with Operational Challenges
The disruption was most acute at major aviation hubs, with Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport facing significant operational hurdles due to the persistent winter fog. The airport itself issued an advisory concerning the foggy conditions across the National Capital Region (NCR).
While flight operations were steadily recovering, the airport authority cautioned that disruptions might continue for specific arrivals and departures. For precise and timely updates, passengers were advised to contact their airline directly. The airport confirmed that its personnel were deployed across all terminals to assist travellers and provide necessary support.
According to reports, the list of cancelled IndiGo flights on Tuesday spanned several major airports, underscoring the nationwide impact of the localized weather event. The cancellations highlight the recurring challenge that winter fog poses to Indian aviation, particularly in the north, demanding constant preparedness from airlines and airports alike.
