On Monday, November 18, 2024, air passengers in Delhi faced significant disruptions due to the city’s worsening air quality and dense smog. The national capital, already grappling with poor air quality levels, saw a marked impact on air travel, with several airlines issuing advisories to inform passengers about potential delays and disruptions in flight schedules.
Air India, one of the country’s major carriers, informed its passengers that the persistent smog could affect the timely departure and arrival of scheduled flights. In its advisory, the airline urged travellers to account for possible delays and recommended arriving at the airport well in advance to avoid last-minute rushes. The smog, combined with the heavy traffic conditions in the city, posed a challenge for both airline operations and airport logistics. Air India particularly emphasized the need for passengers to factor in the likelihood of longer travel times to the airport due to the reduced visibility and road congestion.
SpiceJet and IndiGo, two other prominent carriers operating in the region, followed suit by issuing similar advisories. Both airlines warned passengers that the poor air quality might lead to operational delays, including changes in departure times. They also recommended that travellers stay informed about their flight status by checking for updates on the airlines’ official websites or mobile apps. With Delhi’s air quality reaching hazardous levels, these measures were aimed at helping passengers plan their journeys with greater flexibility and caution.
The severe air pollution in Delhi, which often peaks during the winter months, has become a regular concern for the aviation industry, with reduced visibility and poor air quality impacting flight schedules. The low visibility, combined with the high concentration of pollutants in the air, can disrupt flight navigation, especially during takeoff and landing. In such conditions, air traffic control may also need to adjust flight patterns to ensure safety, further contributing to delays.
While the smog affects air travel, it also poses a health risk to residents and commuters in the city. The Delhi government has been taking measures to address the pollution, including implementing odd-even car schemes and increasing the number of smog towers. However, the impact of air quality on the aviation sector continues to be a challenge, particularly during the peak winter months when air pollution levels are at their highest.
The advisories from Air India, SpiceJet, and IndiGo serve as a reminder of the ongoing issues posed by Delhi’s air pollution and the importance of passengers planning their travels with sufficient time. As airlines continue to monitor the situation, it remains to be seen how long this air quality crisis will impact flight schedules, with travellers advised to stay updated on their flight statuses to minimize inconvenience.
