New Delhi: As winter fog threatens to slow flight operations across northern India, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has begun preparations to ensure that low visibility does not leave passengers stranded without timely updates or assistance. The ministry has asked airlines, airports and aviation agencies to strengthen coordination ahead of the upcoming fog season, with particular emphasis on flight information, operational readiness and passenger support.
At the first Fog Preparedness Meeting for the 2026-27 winter season, held on October 27 under the chairmanship of Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha, officials reviewed measures to maintain safe and efficient airport operations during low-visibility conditions. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), the fog season is expected to run from December 15, 2026, to February 15, 2027.
The meeting brought together Director General of Civil Aviation Vir Vikram Yadav, Airports Authority of India Chairman Puneet Kansal, and representatives of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, Central Industrial Security Force, IMD, Delhi Airport, other fog-affected airports and airlines.
A key focus was to ensure that passengers receive timely information about flight delays, cancellations and revised departure times, rather than reaching airports without knowing the status of their flights. Airlines were directed to use SMS, mobile applications and email to communicate updates and make timely operational decisions.
The ministry also stressed the need for airlines to prepare realistic flight schedules and ensure that aircraft and crew are qualified and ready for low-visibility operations. The DGCA was asked to oversee regulatory compliance, verify preparedness and ensure that airlines follow passenger facilitation requirements.
Airport operators and the Airports Authority of India were directed to check the readiness of Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) and Runway Visual Range (RVR) systems, which support aircraft operations in poor visibility. They were also asked to ensure airside safety, sufficient terminal capacity and effective coordination to manage airport operations during fog.
The IMD was asked to provide reliable forecasts, regular weather observations and timely updates to support operational planning. Air traffic control and air navigation service providers were instructed to follow low-visibility procedures, maintain safe aircraft sequencing and coordinate traffic management during fog-related disruptions.
Passenger assistance during prolonged delays and cancellations was another priority. Airlines were asked to ensure adequate staffing at check-in counters, helpdesks and customer care facilities, while ground handlers were directed to maintain sufficient staff and manage baggage handling and aircraft turnaround efficiently.
Sinha emphasised that airline helpdesks at airports must be staffed by informed and empowered personnel who can address passenger queries effectively. The meeting also discussed the role of the BCAS and CISF in ensuring safe and orderly passenger movement, including terminal re-entry and re-boarding wherever required.
The ministry said coordinated efforts among airlines, airports, regulators, security agencies and weather services would be essential to minimise inconvenience during the winter fog season. The focus is on combining operational preparedness with clear communication so that passengers can make informed decisions when weather conditions affect their travel plans.
BI Bureau
