Leh flight operations hit by adverse weather, passengers advised to check with airlines

Heavy rains and poor visibility in the mountainous Ladakh region have led to widespread travel disruptions, with flights to Leh being the most affected. In light of the challenging weather conditions, authorities at Delhi Airport has issued an advisory and alerted passengers about possible delays and cancellations.

Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (Delhi Airport) has issued a passenger advisory stating, “Due to bad weather conditions in Leh, flight operations to the destination have been affected. We are working closely with all the stakeholders to support passengers and minimise inconvenience. For specific flight information, kindly contact the respective airline,” as posted on social media platform X.

Worsening weather in the region

Reports further add that the disruptive conditions are also because of persistent heavy rainfall and thunderstorms in the upper reaches and Ladakh regions. Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued red alerts across multiple districts, including those around Leh.

This inclement weather has raised concerns over flash floods, landslides, and waterlogging, posing significant challenges to aviation operations in the area.Read more: Why the world’s largest palace stayed forbidden for more than 500 years

Flight conditions at Leh Airport

Latest data from Leh Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport (IXL) indicates that the weather today also remains challenging. Current conditions show IFR (Instrument Flight Rules) prevailing throughout much of the afternoon and evening, with low visibility (around 4,000 m) and ceilings ranging from scattered to broken cloud layers.

Such conditions typically restrict flight traffic to only highly skilled pilots under specific aircraft operations.

Local weather forecasts report cloudy skies with afternoon showers, a high near 61°F (16 °C), and continued cloud cover into the evening.Airlines have also issued travel advisories in response to the situation. IndiGo, one of India’s leading carriers, stated: “Unfavourable weather is holding back flights today in Leh & Dharamshala.

We are pausing our operations until the conditions allow us to fly you safely and comfortably. Please visit our website to explore rebook options or request a refund. Our teams are closely monitoring the weather and operations will resume once it is safe to do so.

Thank you for your patience and understanding as we wait for safer skies together.

Also, heavy rainfall continues to affect North India. The IMD’s live updates indicate red alerts across Himachal Pradesh, Punjab, and Uttarakhand.

Schools and colleges have closed, many roads remain blocked, and rivers, like the Yamuna in Delhi, are reaching danger levels. These conditions further complicate logistics for travellers heading to Delhi or surrounding regional airports.Read more: 8 must visit lakes in Northeast India in SeptemberThe adverse weather in Leh has significantly affected flight operations, with IFR conditions, dense cloud cover, and rainy conditions hampering safe takeoffs and landings.

Delhi Airport and carriers are collaboratively managing the impact, emphasizing passenger support and flexibility.

Passengers flying to or from Leh should:

Contact their airline directly for the latest flight status, rebooking, or refund options.Plan for possible delays, remain patient, and stay in regular communication with airline customer service.Monitor weather advisories from the IMD, especially regarding areas prone to flash flooding and landslides.As conditions evolve, flight operations will resume once safety is assured. Travelers are encouraged to check updates frequently and stay prepared for sudden changes.