Over 100 Flights Cancelled Amid Dense Fog in Northern India

Dense fog blanketed key transportation hubs in northern India during the early morning hours of December 15, 2025, leading to the cancellation of 113 flights across airports in Delhi, Chandigarh, and Lucknow. Visibility dropped below 50 meters at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, prompting authorities to suspend operations for nearly eight hours. The disruption impacted both domestic and international carriers, including Air India, Vistara, and SpiceJet, with more than 15,000 passengers affected over the course of the day. The incident highlights the recurring challenges posed by seasonal fog in the region, particularly during the winter months when temperature inversions trap moisture and particulate matter near the ground. This weather pattern frequently interferes with aviation safety protocols, requiring airlines to adopt conservative scheduling practices when visibility falls below 100 meters. The Indian Meteorological Department reported that fog conditions were exacerbated by high humidity levels and low wind speeds, with no significant clearing expected before midday on December 16. Air traffic controllers at major airports implemented ground holds and rerouted incoming flights to alternative hubs, including Jaipur and Amritsar. Airlines have begun rescheduling affected flights, but delays are expected to persist through the weekend. The disruptions have also strained logistics networks, impacting time-sensitive cargo shipments and business travel, with several companies reporting supply chain delays. Market implications include a temporary dip in airline operating efficiency, particularly for carriers with high traffic volumes in the region. Stock indices tracking Indian aviation and logistics sectors showed modest declines on the day, reflecting investor concerns over operational volatility. Regional airports have reiterated the need for enhanced weather monitoring systems and infrastructure upgrades to mitigate future risks.