The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has issued an alert for passengers traveling to and from North India, warning of potential flight disruptions due to dense fog and a severe cold wave. The advisory comes as many parts of northern India grapple with significantly reduced visibility and harsh winter conditions.
Passengers are urged to check with their respective airlines for the latest flight updates before heading to the airport and to allow extra time for travel. The AAI has stated that weather-related visibility conditions are affecting airport operations, potentially leading to flight delays and extended holding times at select airports.
The cold wave has gripped northern, central, and eastern regions, impacting daily life and disrupting transport services. Road and rail traffic have also been affected by the widespread fog.
The India Meteorological Department has issued an Orange Warning due to plummeting visibility in some areas. Delhi Airport is operating under CAT III conditions due to the dense fog, which has reduced visibility to around 125 meters. This has resulted in delays and cancellations. Several inbound flights to Delhi have been diverted due to poor visibility and air traffic congestion.
Airlines have also issued advisories. IndiGo reported that dense fog in Jammu is affecting flights to and from the city, while SpiceJet cautioned passengers about disruptions in Kolkata. Air India warned that its domestic network, including its primary hub in Delhi, is likely to be affected.
The AAI has activated passenger facilitation measures and deployed assistance teams at affected airports to support travelers. "Passenger safety and smooth airport operations remain our priority during adverse weather conditions," the AAI stated, advising travelers to allow extra time for airport arrival and check-in.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has designated December 10 to February 10, 2026, as the official "fog season". During this period, low visibility routinely challenges pilots and passengers.
