Dense fog blanketing several airports in northern India triggered significant flight disruptions on Monday, with Jaipur's airport becoming an unexpected hub for diverted aircraft. The poor visibility conditions led to the diversion of four inbound flights and the cancellation of three outbound services from the Pink City.
Flights Rerouted to Jaipur Amid Low Visibility
The cascading effect of the fog began in the early hours of Monday, December 29. Four flights, including one international service, were forced to change course and land at Jaipur International Airport after being unable to reach their intended destinations. The diverted flights were all headed to airports in the severely affected northern region.
The list of diverted flights includes:
- SpiceJet flight SG 012, traveling from Dubai to Delhi.
- IndiGo flight 6E 6252, en route from Hyderabad to Chandigarh.
- SpiceJet flight SG 386, flying from Mumbai to Delhi.
- Air India Express flight IX 1348, connecting Goa to Delhi.
An airport official confirmed the situation, stating, "The prevailing fog conditions at various north Indian airports resulted in four diversions to Jaipur airport since 1:30 am on Dec 29. The airport is extending every support for the smooth movement of aircraft."
Cancellations and Passenger Frustration Mount
The disruption was not limited to diversions. The adverse weather also led to the cancellation of at least three flights scheduled to depart from Jaipur. These cancelled services were bound for Delhi, Chandigarh, and Guwahati, further stranding travelers.
The situation left many passengers in a state of confusion and inconvenience. One affected traveler reported that their flight, AI 1834 from Jaipur to Delhi, was cancelled without the airline providing a clear reason or instructions regarding the refund or rebooking process.
The ordeal was even more taxing for passenger Akshay Jain. "I had a flight to Udaipur but I was flown to Jaipur," Jain explained. "I have to take a cab at the last minute from Jaipur to Udaipur. I need a refund for the extra payment I had to make." His experience highlights the additional financial and logistical burdens passengers often face during such operational disruptions.
Winter Fog Continues to Challenge Air Travel
This incident underscores a recurring seasonal challenge for aviation in northern India. Dense winter fog frequently reduces visibility to near-zero levels, making it unsafe for aircraft to take off or land. While airports like Delhi are equipped with advanced landing systems, widespread fog across multiple cities can overwhelm network capacity, leading to a domino effect of delays, diversions, and cancellations.
Passengers are advised to check their flight status regularly during the winter months and stay in touch with their airlines for updates on refund and rebooking policies in case of cancellations. The episode at Jaipur airport serves as a stark reminder of how weather remains a powerful force capable of disrupting modern travel plans.
