Civil Aviation Ministry Directs Airlines to Prepare for Upcoming Fog Season with Realistic Schedules and Qualified Crew

The Ministry of Civil Aviation has asked airlines to ensure the availability of qualified crew, compliant aircraft for low-visibility operations, and realistic flight schedules. The measures are intended to minimise passenger inconvenience during operational disruptions expected in the upcoming fog season, which runs from December 15, 2026, to February 15, 2027, according to the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD).

The directives were issued during a fog preparedness meeting convened by the ministry on Tuesday. Chaired by Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha, the meeting brought together stakeholders including officials from the IMD, Delhi airport and other airport operators, airlines, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF). Key figures such as DGCA Director General Vir Vikram Yadav and AAI Chairman Puneet Kansal also participated.

During the discussions, authorities emphasized advance preparedness, timely communication, effective coordination, and appropriate assistance to passengers facing flight delays, cancellations, and rescheduling. Airlines were specifically instructed to ensure ground handlers maintain adequate staffing, manage baggage efficiently, oversee aircraft turnaround, and provide necessary assistance during disruptions.

Airlines have also been directed to ensure that airport help desks are manned by informed and empowered personnel capable of adequately addressing passenger queries. Furthermore, passengers must receive timely updates through SMS, mobile applications, and email regarding delays, cancellations, and revised departure times.

Regulatory oversight will be managed by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), which has been asked to verify aircraft and crew preparedness, ensure compliance with applicable instructions, and oversee passenger facilitation measures.

Infrastructure providers have also received specific instructions. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) and airport operators must ensure the readiness of Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) and Runway Visual Range (RVR) systems. They are also tasked with maintaining airside safety, adequate terminal capacity, and effective coordination for airport operations under low-visibility conditions.

Additionally, the IMD is expected to provide reliable weather forecasts and timely dissemination of weather updates to aid operational planning. Air Traffic Control and air navigation service providers have been instructed to ensure safe sequencing of air traffic, adherence to low-visibility procedures, and coordinated traffic management.

"Operational preparedness is critical for maintaining business continuity and customer trust in the aviation sector. Proactive planning regarding crew availability, realistic scheduling, and transparent communication helps mitigate financial and reputational risks during seasonal disruptions. For businesses dependent on logistics and travel, clear coordination between regulators and operators ensures smoother execution during challenging weather conditions." — Dr. Shishir Gupta, Founder & CEO, StartupLanes