New Delhi: The Ministry of Civil Aviation has directed airlines and airport operators to strengthen preparations for the upcoming winter fog season, with a focus on timely flight updates, operational readiness and assistance to passengers during disruptions.
Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha on Tuesday chaired the first fog preparedness meeting for the 2026–27 winter season. According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD) officials, the fog season is expected to run from December 15, 2026, to February 15, 2027.
Airlines were instructed to deploy qualified crew and compliant aircraft for low-visibility operations, prepare realistic schedules and take timely decisions on delays, cancellations and rescheduling.
The Ministry stressed that passengers should receive updates through SMS, mobile applications and email so they do not arrive at airports without adequate information about their flights.
Sinha also emphasised that airline helpdesks at airports must be staffed by informed and empowered personnel capable of addressing passenger queries. Adequate staffing at check-in counters and customer care facilities, particularly during prolonged delays and cancellations, was also highlighted.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) was asked to ensure regulatory compliance, verify aircraft and crew preparedness, and oversee passenger facilitation measures.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) and airport operators were directed to ensure the readiness of Instrument Landing Systems and Runway Visual Range systems, maintain airside safety and provide adequate terminal capacity during low-visibility conditions.
The IMD was tasked with providing reliable forecasts, regular observations and timely weather updates. Air Traffic Control and air navigation service providers were instructed to ensure safe aircraft sequencing, adherence to low-visibility procedures and coordinated traffic management.
The meeting also reviewed the role of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) and the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) in managing orderly passenger movement, including terminal re-entry and re-boarding where required.
Airlines were asked to ensure adequate staffing by ground handlers, efficient baggage management and aircraft turnaround, alongside assistance to passengers affected by disruptions.
DGCA Director General Vir Vikram Yadav, AAI Chairman Puneet Kansal, representatives of airlines and fog-affected airports, and officials from security and weather agencies attended the meeting.
[DD news]