What’s Happening in Delhi Right Now (15 January 2026)

Delhi-NCR is in peak winter conditions, and the operational risk for travellers is highest in the late-night to early-morning window, when fog can become dense and visibility can fall sharply. On such mornings, Delhi IGI (DEL) may move into Low Visibility Procedures (LVPs)—meaning flights can still operate, but with reduced throughput.

The practical impact for passengers is familiar: delayed departures, late arrivals, missed connections, and occasional diversions if conditions fluctuate.

Why Fog Delays Flights (In Simple Terms)

Fog isn’t just “bad weather” — it reduces runway visual range (RVR), which is the measurable distance pilots and systems can reliably identify runway centreline lights, signage, and approach cues.

When RVR drops below thresholds, operations slow down because:

• Aircraft need greater spacing between movements.
• Taxi speed and runway crossings reduce due to limited visibility.
• ATC must manage more complex sequencing to prevent runway incursions.

Safety always comes first. The inconvenience is real, but these procedures exist to reduce risk during the most challenging visibility conditions.

Low Visibility Procedures & CAT III: What They Mean

1) Low Visibility Procedures (LVP)

LVP is a set of airport safety protocols used during reduced visibility. Flights may still operate, but the airport functions at a slower pace to keep movements safe. This is why a flight can be delayed even if it isn’t cancelled.

2) CAT III & “Fog-Capable” Landings

Many modern runways and aircraft support CAT III Instrument Landing Systems (ILS), enabling operations in very low visibility. However, CAT III does not remove delays — because runway occupancy, taxi safety, congestion, and flow restrictions still limit capacity.

Passenger Checklist: How to Travel Smarter During Delhi Fog

Before You Leave for the Airport

• Check status twice: airline app + booking PNR + Delhi Airport advisory page (if available).
• If you have connections, build a buffer of 2–4 hours in fog season.
• Keep essentials in cabin baggage: chargers, medicines, one change of clothing, snacks.

At the Airport

• Arrive early: 2.5–3 hours domestic, 3.5+ hours international (especially during morning peaks).
• Expect gate changes and boarding time shifts.
• If delayed, ask airline staff about rebooking priority and the fastest alternative routing.

If Your Meeting Is Time-Critical

• Consider a later departure when visibility improves (often late morning to afternoon performs better).
• Evaluate alternate routings via nearby airports (case-by-case feasibility).
• If your time loss costs more than the ticket: explore charter options (subject to weather/slots/ATC).

The Real Impact: How Fog Disrupts Business Travel

Delhi is a major hub. When fog slows IGI operations, the disruption extends beyond one flight: missed board meetings, delayed plant visits, postponed site inspections, and broken international connections.

For leadership travel, the biggest cost is often not the fare — it’s the time lost, the momentum broken, and the opportunity delayed. That’s why corporates plan winter itineraries with buffers — or keep a contingency option ready.

When Private Charter Can Make Sense in Fog Season

Private charter is not a “fog-proof” solution — weather and operational approvals still apply. However, when conditions allow, charter can help by:

• Reducing dependence on packed commercial schedules and cascading delays.
• Offering more flexible timing (subject to slots/ATC and airport operations).
• Enabling mission-based planning for urgent business or family travel.

Frequently Asked Questions: Delhi Fog and Flights

Does fog always mean flight cancellations?

Not always. Many flights operate with delays when LVPs are active. Cancellations typically happen when disruption cascades or when aircraft rotation becomes impractical.

Is landing more affected than take-off?

Both can be affected. Landings depend on approach minima and RVR; take-offs can be impacted due to runway visibility and ground movement constraints.

What time of day is worst at Delhi during fog season?

Early mornings and late nights are usually most impacted. Even when fog lifts later, delayed aircraft and passengers can keep schedules disrupted.

What’s the single best tip to avoid stress?

Build buffer time. If your trip is important, treat December–February in North India as a high-risk operational window and plan with flexibility.

Can helicopters or private jets fly in fog?

Helicopters and private aircraft are also subject to visibility regulations and operational approvals. While they offer schedule flexibility, they cannot bypass weather safety rules.

What is Runway Visual Range (RVR)?

RVR is the distance a pilot can see down the runway, measured using specialised instruments. It’s the key metric used to determine whether aircraft can safely land or take off.

How long do Low Visibility Procedures last?

LVPs remain in effect as long as visibility stays below operational thresholds. They can last from a few hours to most of the day during severe fog episodes.