228 flights cancelled, 400 delayed as dense fog reduces visibility in Delhi

As many as 228 flights were cancelled and nearly 400 others delayed at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport as the national capital reeled under severe air pollution and dense fog, bringing air traffic to a near standstill. The Air Quality Index (AQI) plunged into the ‘Severe’ category, while visibility dropped drastically to just 50 metres.

The massive disruption left thousands of passengers stranded for hours, affecting travel to major domestic destinations such as Mumbai, Kolkata, Chennai and Lucknow, as well as several international routes. Travellers faced prolonged delays and uncertainty amid deteriorating weather conditions.

Flights affected for prominent personalities

Even flights carrying prominent personalities, including Prime Minister Narendra Modi and football legend Lionel Messi, were reportedly delayed due to poor visibility. Airport authorities have cautioned that flight operations may remain impacted over the next few days as dense fog continues to blanket the region.

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Meanwhile, the worsening pollution crisis has drawn serious concern from the Supreme Court. In response to the hazardous air quality, the Delhi government has shifted classes from nursery to Class V to online mode until conditions improve.