Aviation Ministry Directs Airlines To Ensure Passenger Care As Fog Disrupts Flight Operations

Last Updated:December 20, 2025, 00:01 IST

Civil Aviation Ministry's direction came as dense fog disrupted operations at the Delhi airport, with at least 177 flights getting cancelled and over 500 flights getting delayed.

Some flights are being cancelled by airlines, with passengers being informed in advance to avoid unnecessary travel to airports. (File)

Amid widespread flight disruptions caused by fog and low-visibility conditions, the Ministry of Civil Aviation on Friday directed airlines to strictly adhere to passenger facilitation norms to ensure safety and convenience.

In a post on X, the ministry said that airlines must provide timely and accurate information to passengers regarding delays, cancellations, rescheduling and diversions. It further said that updated details should be shared through all communication channels, including display boards, SMS and email alerts, airline helpdesks, call centres and social media platforms.

The advisory further stated that for extended delays, airlines should provide meals and refreshments proportionate to the waiting time. In cases where delays stretch overnight, hotel accommodation must also be arranged for affected passengers.

The ministry has reiterated that passengers who complete check-in within stipulated timelines must not be denied boarding. If a flight is cancelled at short notice, airlines are required to offer either a full refund or re-routing on an alternate flight at no extra cost, based on the passenger’s choice.

Special assistance must be extended during diversions, including arrangements at alternate airports for meals, onward travel and baggage handling. Airlines have also been directed to ensure priority boarding and necessary support for persons with disabilities (PwDs) and passengers with medical needs.

The ministry further said that the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has been tasked with ensuring uniform implementation of these norms and closely monitoring airline compliance during the ongoing disruption cycle.

Earlier today, Air India also issued a travel advisory for flyers, stating that flight operations are likely to be affected as dense fog conditions were forecast for Delhi, and parts of northern and eastern India, with the onset of winter.

“In the event of delays or cancellations, our ground teams remain available round the clock to assist guests and make alternative arrangements. Passengers booked on select flights during the fog window will continue to receive advance alerts under our FogCare initiative, with the option to change flights without additional payment or seek a full refund without penalty," the airline said in a post on X.

177 Flights Cancelled At Delhi Airport

The Civil Aviation Ministry’s direction came as dense fog disrupted operations at the Delhi airport, with at least 177 flights getting cancelled and over 500 flights getting delayed on Friday.

An official said that a total of 177 flights, including some international services, were cancelled. The figure includes departures and arrivals, news agency PTI reported.

Nearly 500 flights were delayed at the airport on Friday, as per data from flight tracking website Flightradar24.com.

On Friday, Air India Express said it cancelled flights from Delhi to various destinations, including Pune, Ranchi, Bagdogra, Indore, Patna, Goa, Varanasi and Jodhpur, as well as a few other services.

While regretting the inconvenience, Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL), which operates the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), said its on-ground officials are working closely with all stakeholders to assist passengers and provide necessary support across the terminals.

(With inputs from agencies)

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