Minimise Inconvenience, Cancel Flights Delayed By Over 3 Hours: Aviation Minister Directs Airlines

Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu chaired a high-level meeting to assess the readiness in view of the early onset of fog and smog in the national capital region. The meeting was attended by Secretary and senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, India Meteorological Department, DGCA, BCAS, Delhi airport operator, and representatives of various airlines.

During the meeting, Naidu emphasised the significance of following a passenger-centric approach which is aligned to his vision of ‘Ease of Flying’. He also underscored the need to focus on passenger safety and convenience. 

He reviewed the readiness of the Airport Operation Control Room given the foggy weather, and stressed that coordination between the airlines, ATC, ground handlers, and airport operators be maintained to ensure seamless operation of flights. 

The airlines confirmed that they were adhering to the DGCA guidelines under which they had deployed CAT II/III compliant aircraft and pilots in Delhi and other airports affected by fog. In addition to this, CAT III ILS systems have been activated at three out of four runways at the Delhi airport.

The Delhi airport operator has been directed to install LED screens at important locations, which will help in getting real-time updates on visibility conditions. These screens will also improve the availability of ‘Follow Me’ vehicles, assisting aircrafts at the time of low visibility.

Furthermore, the minister has instructed airlines to communicate with the passengers incase of potential delays and cancellations due to low visibility issues. He has also asked the airlines to cancel flights if the delay is over three hours.

“Acknowledging the need for operational efficiency during peak hours. Minister directed that all check-in counters be fully staffed to minimise passenger inconvenience. He also emphasised the importance of adhering to DGCA guidelines during delays/cancellations and at the same time ensuring passengers are timely informed. Our priority during any such delay/cancellations is proper facilitation of the passengers,” a statement from the Civil Aviation Ministry read.