Dense fog cripples flight operations at Delhi airport

Core Insights - The unexpected dense fog at Delhi airport led to significant disruptions in flight operations, with 68 flights cancelled and five diverted, causing widespread delays across the network [1][2]. Group 1: Flight Operations - Low visibility operational procedures were initiated at Delhi airport on Sunday night, leading to a suspension of operations around 3.30 am [2]. - Only four planes managed to take off between 3.30 am and 9 am, highlighting the severity of the situation [3]. - Passengers on a Lufthansa flight to Frankfurt experienced a total wait time of 12 hours, including 9 hours inside the aircraft [3]. Group 2: Airport Management - As parking bays filled up, all incoming flights were put on hold, and arrivals from other airports were allowed only with delays [4]. - The fog was denser than initially forecasted, complicating the deboarding process for passengers after a wait time exceeding 90 minutes [5]. - Senior officials from the civil aviation ministry visited the airport to review operations and ensure coordination among stakeholders for improved passenger convenience [6].