The Civil Aviation Ministry has taken important steps to prepare for the upcoming winter fog season, which is expected to cause flight disruptions from December 15, 2026, to February 15, 2027. The ministry held a meeting on October 27, 2026, to review the readiness of airports, airlines, and related agencies to handle the challenges posed by dense fog, especially in northern India.
- Airports must ensure instrument landing systems and runway visibility equipment are fully operational.
- Airlines are required to have trained crews and aircraft ready for low-visibility operations.
- Passengers should receive timely updates about flight delays, cancellations, and rescheduling.
- Weather forecasts and safety oversight will be strengthened by the India Meteorological Department and Directorate General of Civil Aviation.
- Customer service staffing must be adequate to handle passenger needs during disruptions.
What measures are airports taking to prepare for winter fog?
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) and airport operators have been instructed to check and ensure the readiness of critical equipment such as instrument landing systems and runway visual range devices. These systems help pilots land safely when visibility is low due to fog. Additionally, airports must maintain sufficient terminal capacity and ensure airside safety during these conditions.
How are airlines preparing for low-visibility flight operations?
Airlines have been directed to ensure they have enough trained crew members and aircraft that meet low-visibility operating requirements. They are also expected to plan realistic flight schedules and make timely decisions about flight delays or cancellations to reduce passenger inconvenience. Communication with passengers through SMS, mobile apps, and email is emphasized to keep travelers informed about any changes.
What roles do regulatory and weather agencies play in fog preparedness?
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) is tasked with strengthening safety oversight by verifying that aircraft and crew are prepared for low-visibility conditions. The India Meteorological Department (IMD) is responsible for providing accurate and timely weather forecasts and updates to support safe flight operations during the fog season.
How will passenger services be managed during disruptions?
The ministry has stressed the importance of adequate staffing at check-in counters, airline helpdesks, and customer care centers, especially during prolonged delays or cancellations. Measures to ensure safe and orderly passenger movement, including terminal re-entry and re-boarding procedures, were also discussed to improve the overall travel experience during challenging weather.
Why is winter fog a concern for Indian aviation?
Dense fog commonly occurs in northern parts of India during winter, significantly reducing visibility at airports. This can disrupt flight schedules, cause delays, and increase safety risks. Preparing for these conditions helps minimize inconvenience for passengers and maintains safe operations.
The meeting was chaired by Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha and attended by senior officials from DGCA, AAI, Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, Central Industrial Security Force, IMD, and representatives from airlines and airports. Their coordinated efforts aim to ensure that the aviation sector is ready to face the challenges of the winter fog season effectively.
