Winter Fog Grounds Flights at Delhi, Varanasi, and Mumbai Airports: What Travelers Need to Know

Published on December 26, 2025

India’s aviation sector is grappling with significant disruptions this winter as a dense layer of fog blankets major airports, grounding flights and causing delays. Key destinations such as Delhi, Varanasi, Mumbai, Chennai, Bengaluru, and Kolkata are among the most affected. As winter sets in, flight operations have been severely impacted by low visibility, forcing airlines to adjust schedules and cancel several flights across the country.

The winter fog season has traditionally posed challenges for Indian airports, but the current wave of disruptions has highlighted the need for better preparedness and enhanced technology to manage fog-related delays. The government has issued advisories, urging travelers to stay updated on their flight statuses, especially during early morning and late-night hours, when visibility is at its worst.

Winter Fog Disrupts Air Travel Across Key Indian Airports

In December 2025, a series of flight cancellations were reported at India’s busiest airports. Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi, one of the country’s largest airports, was among the most affected by the thick fog that rolled in during the early morning hours. IndiGo, a leading low-cost carrier in India, was forced to cancel multiple flights due to low visibility, impacting travelers across several routes.

Flights Affected by Winter Fog

As per official updates, the following IndiGo flights were canceled or delayed:

The airport authorities have been actively working to manage the situation, but the weather has limited their ability to fully prevent delays. Passengers have been urged to reach out to their airlines for rebooking options or further assistance in case their flights are canceled or delayed.

Government Advisories and Passenger Guidance

To minimize inconvenience for travelers, the Ministry of Civil Aviation (MoCA) has urged airlines to enhance their communication with passengers regarding any changes to flight schedules. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has also issued guidelines to ensure that safety measures are prioritized, even at the cost of delays.

Passengers are encouraged to follow these steps:

1. Check for real-time flight updates through the airlines’ official websites or apps.
2. Arrive early at the airport to account for possible delays at check-in and security.
3. Be prepared for cancellations due to weather-related conditions.

Impact on India’s Airports and Tourism

The winter fog disruptions are not only causing travel inconveniences but also impacting the tourism industry in key destinations. Cities like Delhi, Varanasi, and Mumbai rely heavily on air traffic, especially during the peak winter months when domestic and international tourism is high. Local businesses, hotels, and transport services in these areas have reported a rise in cancellations as travelers are forced to delay or change their plans.

Delhi, known for its rich cultural heritage and historical landmarks such as the Red Fort, Qutub Minar, and India Gate, typically sees high tourist footfall during the winter months. However, the ongoing disruptions have impacted visitors’ ability to reach these destinations smoothly.

Similarly, Varanasi, one of the holiest cities in India and a major destination for spiritual tourism, has faced a decline in tourists due to limited flight options. The fog has delayed international visitors hoping to experience the Ganga Aarti on the banks of the Ganges River.

Aviation Industry Challenges and Solutions

The challenges presented by winter fog are not new, but the recent disruptions have reignited discussions about improving the country’s aviation infrastructure. The Ministry of Civil Aviation and airport authorities are exploring new technologies, such as advanced radar systems and low-visibility landing systems, which could help reduce the impact of fog in future seasons.

Moreover, the government is working to ensure that airlines maintain flexible policies regarding cancellations and rebookings, minimizing the financial burden on passengers. The travel sector is also urging airlines to look into increasing capacity during the peak season to make up for any disruptions caused by the fog.

A Step Toward Improved Preparedness

As winter fog continues to cause issues for air travel, the government is actively working on improving infrastructure and technological systems to better equip airports for such challenges. In the meantime, it is essential for travelers to stay informed and prepared for any disruptions.

The Department of Tourism has advised tourists to keep an eye on weather updates and flight statuses to ensure smooth travel during the holiday season. The authorities are also working with hotels and local businesses to help visitors rebook accommodations or make alternative arrangements in case their travel plans are disrupted.

Conclusion: Navigating the Winter Fog in India

Winter fog in India has once again proven to be a formidable challenge for travelers, especially those flying to key airports like Delhi, Varanasi, and Mumbai. With cancellations and delays affecting hundreds of passengers, the aviation industry is working closely with the government to ensure safety and minimize disruptions.

While IndiGo and other airlines are offering support and rebooking options, it’s crucial for travelers to stay informed and flexible with their plans. As India continues to improve its infrastructure to tackle weather-related challenges, travelers are advised to plan ahead and be prepared for changes to their travel schedules.

The winter fog season may be disruptive, but it is also an opportunity for the aviation industry and government agencies to come together and develop more robust systems for handling these types of weather events in the future.