Delhi’s air quality dropped to hazardous levels on Monday, November 18, enveloping the city in thick smog and causing major disruptions to air travel. The Air Quality Index (AQI) surged to an alarming 484 in the morning, peaking at 490 by 1 PM, severely impacting flight operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport.
In response to the deteriorating air quality, several airlines issued immediate advisories to passengers. Air India, through an update on X (formerly Twitter), warned of possible delays, urging travelers to arrive early at the airport due to traffic congestion. The airline also emphasized the impact of poor visibility on flight schedules, advising passengers to monitor flight statuses on their official website: Air India Flight Status.
IndiGo echoed similar concerns, alerting passengers to the fog and reduced visibility in Delhi, which was causing flight delays and slower airport traffic. They recommended allowing extra time for travel and advised passengers to check their flight status before departure.
SpiceJet also warned of potential disruptions to both departures and arrivals at Delhi Airport (DEL) due to poor visibility. Travelers were directed to their flight status page for real-time updates: SpiceJet Flight Status. Additionally, similar conditions were reported at Amritsar Airport (ATQ), further highlighting the extensive impact of the smog on air travel across northern India.
According to the Central Pollution Control Board (CPCB), AQI levels in some parts of Delhi, including Dwarka, Najafgarh, Nehru Nagar, and Mundka, reached the maximum AQI of 500, indicating severe and hazardous conditions. The Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) also released a statement acknowledging low visibility procedures, assuring passengers that operations were continuing, though they advised checking with airlines for the latest flight information.
This episode serves as a stark reminder of how severe air pollution can disrupt daily life and infrastructure. It underscores the need for more effective pollution control measures in Delhi and neighboring regions to safeguard public health and maintain smooth operations in critical sectors like air travel.
