Severe Smog Disrupts Air Travel in Delhi: 61 Flights Cancelled, Many Delayed as AQI Remains ‘Severe’

At least 61 flights were cancelled and several others delayed on Monday as dense smog and low visibility engulfed Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR), severely impacting air operations, HT has learnt.

The Air Quality Index (AQI) in the national capital stood at a ‘severe’ 454 at 7.05 am, according to data from the Central Pollution Control Board’s (CPCB) Sameer app. On Sunday, the AQI had touched 461, marking the second-worst air quality recorded in December so far.

Due to dense fog, at least five flights bound for Delhi were diverted.

Earlier in the day, Delhi airport issued a travel advisory warning passengers of possible disruptions to flight operations.
“Due to dense fog, flight operations may experience disruptions. We are working closely with all stakeholders to minimise inconvenience to passengers. For the latest flight updates, passengers are advised to contact their respective airlines,” the airport said in a post on X, expressing regret for the inconvenience caused.

IndiGo also issued an advisory, cautioning that low visibility would impact flight schedules.
“Low visibility and fog over #Delhi will impact flight schedules. We’re closely monitoring the weather and doing our best to ensure safe and smooth operations,” the airline said, urging passengers to check flight status via its website or app. The carrier also advised travellers to factor in extra travel time to the airport, as road traffic may slow due to the haze.

Air India similarly asked passengers to verify flight details before leaving for the airport.
“Poor visibility due to dense fog is impacting flight operations in Delhi and parts of Northern India,” the airline said in a post on X.

Toxic haze blankets the city

Several videos shared on social media showed thick smog across multiple parts of Delhi. AQI levels were recorded at 493 in Akshardham, 433 at the Barapulla flyover and 474 on Barakhamba Road, indicating extremely poor air quality and reduced visibility across the city.

According to CPCB standards, an AQI between 401 and 500 is classified as ‘severe’, posing serious health risks.

In response to the deteriorating air quality, the Commission for Air Quality Management (CAQM) invoked Stage IV of the Graded Response Action Plan (GRAP) on Saturday — the strictest set of anti-pollution measures.

Under Stage IV, all construction and demolition activities in Delhi-NCR have been banned. The Delhi government has also directed 50 per cent of staff in government and private offices to work from home. Schools up to Class 11 (except Class 10) have been instructed to conduct classes in a hybrid mode, combining online and physical attendance.