“DGCA Authorizes Airlines to Cancel Delayed Flights Amid Fog Turmoil with New Guidelines”

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In response to the recent chaos caused by fog-related flight disruptions at Delhi airport, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) has issued new guidelines to address denied boarding, flight cancellations, and delays. The standard operating procedure (SOP) empowers airlines to cancel flights that are likely to be delayed or “consequentially delayed” beyond three hours.

The DGCA emphasized the immediate implementation of the SOP by all airlines. However, it clarified that the rules may not apply in cases of extraordinary circumstances beyond the control of airlines.

Real-Time Information Publication: Airlines are mandated to publish accurate real-time information regarding flight delays. This information should be made available on the airline’s website, communicated in advance to affected passengers through SMS/WhatsApp and email, displayed at airports for waiting passengers, and communicated effectively by airline staff.

The move comes after a tumultuous day at Delhi airport, where coordination broke down, leading to hundreds of passengers demanding answers from airlines due to delays. The situation escalated when a passenger assaulted a pilot of an IndiGo flight while the aircraft was on the tarmac.

In response to the disruptions caused by dense fog in North India, including the main Delhi hub, Air India expressed regret for the impact on operations. The airline cited diversions and desynchronization of aircraft and crew rotations.

Civil Aviation Minister Jyotiraditya Scindia addressed the situation, acknowledging the unprecedented fog conditions that fluctuated visibility for several hours, at times dropping to zero. He explained that the decision to temporarily shut down operations, even on CAT III runways, was made to prioritize passenger safety.

Scindia reassured the public that steps have been taken to prevent similar circumstances in the future. The aviation ecosystem remains committed to ensuring the safety and well-being of passengers amid challenging weather conditions.

Sources By Agencies