Flight operations at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) faced significant disruptions on Tuesday, with over 600 flights delayed due to a combination of adverse weather conditions and ongoing runway maintenance
According to data from Flightradar24, by 11:30 PM, 198 arriving flights and 443 departing flights experienced delays. The primary causes were the early onset of easterly winds and the closure of Runway 10/28 for upgradation work. ​ The airport operator, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), had previously issued advisories warning passengers of potential delays due to shifting wind patterns. These easterly winds reduce the airport’s capacity from 46 to 32 arrivals per hour, necessitating adjustments in air traffic management.
Runway 10/28 was closed on April 8 for the installation of a Category III Instrument Landing System (ILS), aimed at enhancing landing capabilities during low-visibility conditions. However, the unexpected early arrival of easterly winds prompted DIAL to temporarily suspend the upgrade work, with plans to resume in early May. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) and the Ministry of Civil Aviation are closely monitoring the situation. Officials have emphasized the importance of better planning and coordination to minimize disruptions during critical travel periods. ​
Passengers have expressed frustration over the delays, with many taking to social media to voice their concerns. The airport has issued multiple advisories, urging travellers to check flight statuses with their respective airlines before heading to the airport.​ As air travel demand continues to rise, the incident underscores the need for robust infrastructure and contingency planning to handle unforeseen challenges, ensuring minimal disruption to passenger journeys.
Over 600 Delhi Flights Delayed Amid Weather Wind Shift
