New Delhi: The Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) has issued an advisory warning passengers of potential flight delays due to dense fog enveloping the region on Saturday morning. Authorities have confirmed that CAT III operational conditions remain in effect, requiring all airlines to coordinate closely with airport officials for real-time updates.

“Due to persistent dense fog, flight operations continue to remain under CAT III conditions which may result in flight delays. For the most up-to-date flight information, we request you to contact your respective airlines or visit our website,” the advisory stated.

Weather Conditions

• Delhi experienced a thin layer of fog in the morning as cold wave conditions persisted.
• The minimum temperature dropped to 4.2°C, according to the India Meteorological Department (IMD).
• Rainfall on Friday had already lowered the mercury to 5°C, accompanied by a thick blanket of smog across the city.

Air Quality Concerns

• Air pollution levels sharply increased, with Delhi’s overall AQI reaching 361, classified as ‘very poor’, per the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB).
• Specific readings in the capital included:
  • Nehru Nagar: 426
  • Dwarka Sector 8: 402
  • RK Puram: 390
  • Patparganj: 400
  • Chandni Chowk: 398
  • ITO: 361
  • Near IGI Airport: 326
• Areas such as Anand Vihar and Jahangirpuri also reported extremely high AQI levels of 385 and 340, respectively.
• Terminal 3 at IGI Airport recorded an AQI of 252, still within the ‘poor’ category.

Airport Precautions

• Airlines have been urged to stay in constant contact with airport operations.
• Airport authorities emphasized that teams are working with all stakeholders to minimize passenger inconvenience.
• Passengers are advised to check with their airlines for the latest flight status before heading to the airport.

With cold wave conditions and dense fog expected to continue, travelers to and from Delhi are being advised to plan ahead and allow extra time for flights.

The combination of severe air pollution and limited visibility due to fog is contributing to challenging conditions for both commuters and air travelers in the capital.