Delhi

Is Delhi Airport turbulent?

Delhi's biggest aviation challenge isn't turbulence but visibility. Winter fog regularly reduces visibility to near zero, causing hundreds of flight cancellations and delays each December through February. The combination of cold temperatures, moisture, and severe air pollution creates persistent fog banks that can shut down operations for days. Summer monsoon thunderstorms bring actual turbulence from June through September.

• December 2025 alone saw 1000+ delayed flights and 200+ cancellations from fog
• Winter fog events can reduce visibility below 50 meters
• Air quality often exceeds 'hazardous' levels during fog events

Why is Delhi fog so severe?

Delhi's fog is worsened by severe air pollution from crop burning, vehicle emissions, and industrial activity. When cold winter air settles over the Indo-Gangetic Plain, pollutants get trapped near the surface and mix with moisture to create unusually thick fog. The combination of meteorological and pollution factors makes Delhi's winter fog among the worst for any major airport globally.

When can I avoid Delhi weather delays?

October through mid-November offers clear skies before winter fog sets in. March through May is generally clear but extremely hot. If flying in winter, book CAT-III compliant aircraft (most major international carriers) which can land in lower visibility. Morning flights during fog season face the worst delays; afternoon departures are often better once fog burns off.