Civil Aviation Minister K. Rammohan Naidu chaired a comprehensive review meeting on November 20, 2024, focusing on preparedness for winter fog conditions and their impact on air travel across India. The meeting brought together key stakeholders, including representatives from airlines, airport authorities, and air traffic management agencies, to strategize on ensuring seamless travel experiences despite the seasonal challenges posed by reduced visibility.
During the discussions, the minister stressed the need for a passenger-centric approach in handling delays and disruptions caused by fog. Airlines were urged to adopt proactive communication measures, ensuring passengers are kept well-informed about delays, rescheduled flights, or cancellations. The importance of real-time updates via messages, emails, and announcements at airport terminals was highlighted to minimize confusion and stress among travelers.
In addition, the minister directed airlines to ensure that check-in counters at all major airports are fully staffed during the winter season. This step, he said, would reduce passenger inconvenience, especially during peak hours when delays are more likely. By optimizing staffing levels and resources, airlines and airports can better manage the increased volume of passengers expected during the foggy season.
The Civil Aviation Ministry, in an official release following the meeting, underscored that significant progress has been made in addressing bottlenecks related to visibility challenges. It praised the efforts of various stakeholders in enhancing infrastructure, improving communication channels, and deploying advanced technology to combat the impact of adverse weather on flight schedules.
Efforts have been made to ensure that air traffic management systems are better equipped to handle the complexities of low-visibility operations. Enhanced procedures for take-offs, landings, and taxiing during foggy conditions are being implemented in collaboration with air traffic control (ATC) teams. Furthermore, airports are ramping up their infrastructure with the installation of advanced Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) and visibility guidance systems to improve operational efficiency and minimize disruptions.
The minister also emphasized the need for a coordinated effort among all stakeholders to deliver a seamless passenger experience despite the weather-related challenges. Airlines were reminded of their responsibility to prioritize passenger welfare by providing adequate amenities, including refreshments and comfortable waiting areas, in case of prolonged delays.
With fog being a recurring issue in Indian aviation, the ministry has been proactively working to mitigate its impact through infrastructure upgrades and better operational protocols. The meeting reaffirmed the government’s commitment to making air travel safe, efficient, and passenger-friendly during the winter months. These measures are expected to alleviate some of the challenges posed by fog and ensure that passengers experience minimal disruption to their travel plans.
The review meeting is part of the government’s broader efforts to enhance India’s aviation sector and uphold its reputation for efficiency and safety. With the winter season fast approaching, the ministry has reiterated its commitment to ensuring a well-coordinated response to weather-related challenges while maintaining the highest standards of service quality for air travelers.