Mumbai, 22nd November 2024: IndiGo, India’s largest domestic airline, operating around 2,100 daily flights across domestic and international routes, announced measures to mitigate disruptions during the winter season caused by low visibility due to fog. With a 63% market share in the domestic aviation sector, the airline faces significant challenges, particularly at its operational hub in Delhi, during North India’s fog-prone winters. These conditions often lead to delays, cancellations, and diversions, with factors like strong winds, airport congestion, and navigation issues further complicating operations.
To address these issues, IndiGo has implemented proactive strategies and advanced technologies. The airline ensures that flights during fog-prone periods are operated by Low Visibility Operations (LVO) qualified pilots certified for CAT-IIIB landings. Crews are strategically stationed near airports, with pre-arranged accommodations and transportation, enabling them to operate flights promptly when conditions improve. IndiGo also coordinates standby arrangements at airports to streamline operations and minimize delays.
In forecasting and risk assessment, IndiGo relies on a team of expert meteorologists to monitor weather conditions and provide accurate forecasts. The team utilizes tools like hourly weather updates and terminal aerodrome forecasts to predict fog events. The airline conducts safety risk assessments for severe weather and adjusts operations accordingly. Historical data helps the airline anticipate fuel requirements, reducing diversions and gate returns due to holding patterns or taxi delays.
The Operations Control Center (OCC) plays a crucial role in real-time monitoring of visibility and crew availability. Rostering ensures that CAT-III/LVTO-certified crews are aligned with Flight Duty Time Limitations (FDTL). During disruptions, diversions are directed only to airports equipped with Aircraft Maintenance Engineers (AMEs) to maintain operational continuity. A dedicated team provides support to diverted flights to ensure seamless operations.
IndiGo’s engineering team ensures aircraft are fully equipped for low-visibility operations, with essential systems functioning optimally to prevent additional delays.
Customer care remains central to IndiGo’s strategy. The airline prioritizes clear communication with passengers during delays, keeping them informed through announcements and on-ground representatives. Passengers on diverted flights are briefed about local regulations. Refreshments are provided during extended delays, and refunds or rebooking options are offered for delays exceeding two hours, as per regulatory guidelines.
These efforts are detailed in IndiGo’s IROPS Joint Circular, which outlines responsibilities and procedures for managing disruptions. IndiGo emphasized its commitment to reducing fog-related disruptions and ensuring a safe, comfortable travel experience for passengers, even in challenging weather conditions.