Dense fog has thrown air travel into disarray across North India, with major airlines like IndiGo issuing advisories for significant delays at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport. The situation has escalated into a full-blown operational crisis, with cascading effects felt at other airports in the region.
Flight Operations Hit by Dense Fog
The severe fog conditions, impacting large parts of northern India, have severely hampered flight schedules. IndiGo has formally warned passengers of potential delays for flights operating to and from Delhi's IGI Airport. The advisory comes as visibility dropped drastically, making it challenging for aircraft to take off and land safely.
Passenger Stranding and Soaring Fares in Amritsar
The ripple effects of the weather disruption were starkly visible at the Sri Guru Ramdas Jee International Airport in Amritsar. On Friday, December 19, 2025, a total of 22 flights were cancelled, leaving a large number of passengers stranded at the airport terminals. The sudden cancellations created a chaotic scene as travelers scrambled for alternatives.
This massive cancellation led to an immediate surge in demand for seats on other operational flights. Consequently, ticket prices on other airlines nearly doubled, putting additional financial strain on passengers desperate to reach their destinations. The combination of cancellations and inflated fares has made for a difficult travel day for many.
Ongoing Crisis and Travel Advisory
The current situation underscores the ongoing operational challenges airlines face during North India's winter fog season. IndiGo's proactive advisory for Delhi is an attempt to manage passenger expectations and minimize inconvenience at the airport. Travelers flying through the affected regions in the coming days are advised to:
- Check their flight status regularly with the airline before heading to the airport.
- Allow for considerable extra time for their journey due to expected road and air traffic delays.
- Stay in touch with their airlines for real-time updates on cancellations or rescheduling.
As the meteorological conditions persist, authorities and airlines are working to normalize operations, but passengers should brace for continued disruptions until the fog clears.
