Dense Fog Grips North India: Massive Flight Disruptions; Airlines Offer Full Refunds
By PuneNow News Desk
December 20, 2025: Severe winter weather has triggered a major aviation crisis across Northern India, as a thick blanket of dense fog continues to disrupt flight operations at several key airports. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) and major carriers, including IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet, have issued urgent travel advisories as visibility dropped to near-zero levels in multiple cities this morning.
According to the India Meteorological Department (IMD), satellite imagery has detected heavy fog and low clouds hovering over Punjab, Haryana, Delhi, Uttar Pradesh, Bihar, and parts of West Bengal. The “orange alert” conditions have forced the implementation of CAT-III low-visibility protocols at major hubs like Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport.
Airlines Issue Major Advisories
Major airlines have reported significant impacts on their schedules, with “ripple effects” felt across the national network, including flights to and from Pune.
- IndiGo: The airline reported that dense fog in Delhi NCR, Amritsar, Chandigarh, and Ranchi has significantly reduced visibility. Passengers are being directed to the “Plan B” initiative, allowing those with cancelled or heavily delayed flights to rebook or claim a full refund at no extra cost.
- Air India: Under its ‘FogCare’ initiative, Air India is proactively notifying passengers of potential disruptions. Impacted travelers are being offered complimentary rescheduling or full refunds. The airline noted that operations in Lucknow, Varanasi, and Patna remain highly vulnerable.
- SpiceJet: The carrier warned of disruptions in Ayodhya, Gorakhpur, and Bagdogra, advising passengers to check their flight status before leaving for the airport.
Government and AAI Response
The Ministry of Civil Aviation confirmed it is closely coordinating with the IMD to manage real-time updates. To mitigate passenger hardship, AAI has deployed dedicated facilitation teams at affected airports to assist travelers.
Airport Directors have been instructed to ensure full support, including refreshments and seating for stranded passengers. “Safety remains our highest priority,” the AAI stated, urging travelers to rely exclusively on official channels for information.
Essential Customer Support Contacts
If your travel plans are affected, you can reach out to the following helpline numbers:
- IndiGo: 0124-4973838
- Air India: 011-69329333
- SpiceJet: +91 124-4983410
- Akasa Air: 9606112131
- Air India Express: +91 124-4435600
- Alliance Air: 044-35113511
