The Ministry of Civil Aviation has directed airlines and airport operators to strengthen preparations for the 2026–27 winter fog season, focusing on timely passenger updates, safe flight operations and assistance during disruptions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) expects the season to run from December 15, 2026, to February 15, 2027.
Civil Aviation Secretary Samir Kumar Sinha chaired the first fog preparedness meeting on Tuesday. Airlines were instructed to notify passengers about delays, cancellations and revised departure times through SMS, email and mobile applications.
They were also asked to prepare realistic schedules, deploy qualified crew and compliant aircraft for low-visibility operations, and ensure adequate staffing at helpdesks, check-in counters and customer care facilities.
The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) was tasked with checking regulatory compliance and aircraft and crew readiness.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) and airport operators were directed to ensure the readiness of Instrument Landing Systems (ILS) and Runway Visual Range (RVR) systems, maintain airside safety and provide sufficient terminal capacity.
The IMD will provide timely forecasts and weather updates, while Air Traffic Control and air navigation service providers must follow low-visibility procedures and coordinate aircraft movements.
The meeting also reviewed passenger re-entry and re-boarding arrangements, baggage handling, aircraft turnaround and ground staffing.
Officials from the DGCA, AAI, Bureau of Civil Aviation Security, CISF, IMD, airlines and fog-affected airports attended the meeting.
