DGCA Issues Guidelines To Airlines For Better Communication On Flight Disruptions During Adverse Weather Conditions
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) issued Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) on Monday for airlines dealing with flight cancellations caused by extended delays in adverse weather conditions.
In response to the challenges posed by dense fog, the DGCA has directed airlines to sensitise airport staff to effectively communicate and update passengers about delays. The aviation regulator emphasised the importance of providing accurate real-time information on flight delays caused by fog-related disruptions and displaying timely updates for passengers waiting at airports.
The issuance of these guidelines follows a chaotic incident at Delhi's Indira Gandhi International (IGI) airport on Sunday. Dozens of flights were delayed due to dense fog, leaving passengers stranded for several hours.
Due to the severe fog conditions, the Delhi airport issued an advisory urging passengers to contact airlines before their travels. The airport authority posted on 'X,' stating, "Due to dense fog, flight operations at Delhi Airport may be affected. Passengers are requested to contact the airline concerned for updated flight information.”
Adding to the challenges faced by the aviation industry, a video surfaced online showing a passenger physically assaulting the pilot aboard an IndiGo flight. The incident occurred on Sunday, 14 January, inside flight number 6E 2175 departing from Delhi to Goa, during an announcement about delays. In the video, crew members can be seen attempting to calm the agitated passenger.
