Major Indian airlines operating flights to the UAE, including Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, have issued advisories warning passengers of extensive delays and potential diversions due to dust storms and strong winds affecting Delhi and parts of northern India.
The severe weather led to widespread chaos at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport on April 11. Media reports confirmed that at least 205 flights were delayed and over 50 were diverted, stranding hundreds of passengers and causing cascading disruptions across airline schedules.
Air India acknowledged the ongoing disruptions to flight operations in northern India, particularly in and out of Delhi. The airline cautioned travelers to expect potential delays or diversions, especially between 5:30 pm and 9:00 pm Indian Standard Time (IST), and urged passengers to monitor flight updates and plan accordingly for extended ground operations.
IndiGo also reported that dust storms in the capital had impacted takeoff and landing clearances. The airline advised customers to check real-time flight status via its website or app. “We appreciate our passengers’ patience and are assisting with pre-departure procedures at Delhi Airport,” the airline stated.
SpiceJet echoed similar concerns, alerting passengers that severe weather conditions could affect all arrivals, departures, and connecting flights operating through Delhi.
As of Saturday, April 12, UAE-based carriers Emirates and Etihad had not issued any official travel advisories. However, Etihad Airways confirmed that flight EY216 from Abu Dhabi to Delhi was diverted to Jaipur on Friday due to adverse weather. “The safety and comfort of our guests and crew is our priority,” the airline said in a statement.
Meanwhile, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued an orange alert for Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR). The forecast includes dust storms, thunderstorms, lightning, and gusty winds ranging from 40 to 80 km/h expected later in the evening. The storm has also disrupted traffic and services in Noida and surrounding areas.
Passengers flying to or from Delhi are advised to stay updated on flight schedules and account for possible delays due to ongoing weather challenges.
