Delhi-NCR residents woke up to a refreshing spell of rainfall on April 29, bringing much-needed respite from the ongoing heatwave. However, the sudden change in weather has caused significant disruptions to air travel at the Indira Gandhi International Airport in New Delhi.
Impact on Flight Operations
The rain, accompanied by thunderstorms and gusty winds sweeping across the region, has severely affected flight schedules. Wind speeds were recorded between 40 and 50 km per hour, creating challenging conditions for take-offs and landings. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued a yellow alert, predicting continued spells of rain throughout the day. Prominent airlines, including SpiceJet and IndiGo, have issued travel advisories warning passengers of potential delays. The city experienced light to moderate rainfall, thunderstorms, and lightning.
SpiceJet Travel Advisory
SpiceJet took to X (formerly Twitter) to share its advisory at 6:56 AM on April 29, 2026. The advisory stated: "Due to bad weather in Delhi (DEL), all departures/arrivals and their consequential flights may be affected. Passengers are requested to keep a check on their flight status via the airline's official website."
IndiGo Travel Advisory
IndiGo also issued a statement: "Bad weather over Delhi has impacted flight schedules. We are closely monitoring the weather and doing our best to get you where you need to be, safely and smoothly. We request that you stay updated on your flight status via our website or app. Please be assured that our teams are here to assist you at every step and provide full support. We look forward to clearer skies and a swift return to our regular schedule. Thank you for your patience and understanding."
Why Sudden Weather Change Causes Disruption
Thunderstorms and high-speed winds are considered hazardous for air travel as they can create serious operational challenges for airports. Heavy rains reduce visibility, while wind shear and lightning risks can delay take-offs and landings. Even a minor weather disturbance can have a major ripple effect on flight schedules, leading to cascading delays throughout the day.
Relief from Heat, but Challenges for Travel
For passengers flying in or out of Delhi, the primary concern is the uncertainty surrounding flight timings. Delays in morning or afternoon flights can affect connecting flights later in the day, causing inconvenience for travelers. Flyers may also face longer waiting times at the airport. While no widespread cancellations have been reported yet, the advisories from airlines indicate that operational delays are likely due to the adverse weather conditions.
Advice for Travelers
Passengers are advised to take the following precautions:
- Check real-time flight status before leaving for the airport
- Trust only official information from airlines or airport authorities
- Allow extra time for airport transfers and security checks
- Stay in touch with airline customer support for rebooking options if needed
- Remain patient, as weather-related disruptions are beyond the control of airlines
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