Flight Updates: Government Issues Directive on Passenger Assistance During Dense Fog

New Delhi: The onset of dense fog in North India is significantly affecting aviation operations. To ensure passenger convenience, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has issued strict guidelines for airlines during low-visibility conditions.

At Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) in Delhi, around 80 flights were cancelled and 230 flights delayed due to heavy fog today, causing major inconvenience to passengers. In response, the government has instructed airlines and the DGCA to provide real-time updates about cancellations or long delays via SMS, email, call centers, and social media platforms.

Key Instructions from the Ministry:

• If a flight is delayed by more than two hours, passengers must be provided with food and refreshments. Diversions to alternate airports should also include similar arrangements.
• Passengers of cancelled or delayed flights must be offered alternate travel options, rebooking, or refunds without any additional charges, all within a specified timeframe.
• The DGCA will closely monitor compliance to ensure passenger rights are upheld during the fog season.

Officials report that airlines including IndiGo and Air India have improved real-time communication for passengers this season, working closely with the Indian Meteorological Department to receive accurate forecasts and minimize disruptions.