Heavy Monsoon Disrupts Flight Operations at Delhi Airport, Travel Advisory Issued

India is currently experiencing intense monsoon storms, with relentless rain bringing chaos across Delhi and the wider National Capital Region (NCR). The severe weather has severely impacted daily life, causing widespread flooding, traffic congestion, and major disruptions at Indira Gandhi International Airport. Heavy downpours have led to numerous flight delays and cancellations, notably affecting airlines such as IndiGo and Air India. In response, airport authorities have issued urgent travel advisories urging passengers to check their flight status and consider alternative transport options, including the Delhi Metro, to avoid the congestion on roads. This aggressive early monsoon season has thrown the region’s infrastructure into disarray, disrupting travel plans for many.

Delhi Airport Issues Travel Advisory Amid Stormy Weather

Following unexpected rainfall early Monday morning, Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport has published a travel advisory alerting passengers to potential delays and advising them to pre-check their flight status. The heavy rain, which followed a day of persistent drizzle on Sunday, caused minor flooding in some areas and stalled normal commuting, prompting officials to keep a close watch on ongoing weather developments.

Passengers are encouraged to utilise the Metro and other public transport to prevent prolonged delays and ease congestion at the airport. The airport’s advice also includes arriving early, especially during peak hours or anticipated bad weather, and carrying rain gear like umbrellas or raincoats.

Multiple Airlines Issue Advisory

Air India, in a public notice shared on the social media platform X, stated, “Rain and thunderstorms may impact flight operations to and from Delhi today. Please check your flight status before heading to the airport and allow extra time for your journey.” A direct link has been provided for passengers to verify live flight statuses via their website.

IndiGo Airlines, India’s largest domestic carrier, echoed the concern in an advisory issued the evening before, “Heavy rain is expected across Delhi, and that may slow down road movement in some areas. If you are travelling to the airport, we suggest starting a little earlier than usual.”

The airline has urged customers to monitor both traffic and flight updates through its app or website and assured that airport teams are on standby to assist.

Rainfall Provides Temporary Relief but Causes Disruptions

While the rain has disrupted travel, it has also brought a brief respite from Delhi’s punishing summer heat. On Sunday, the maximum temperature was 38.4°C, with a low of 25.1°C, around two degrees below the seasonal average. The cooler weather was welcomed, despite the inconvenience caused by waterlogging and traffic delays.

Forecasts from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) predict cloudy skies with light rain, thunderstorms, and occasional lightning across the region throughout the day. Temperatures are expected to range between 23°C and 34°C, offering a milder climate for residents and commuters. Although no severe weather warnings have been issued, officials caution that isolated showers could occur unpredictably over the coming days, potentially impacting transport and outdoor activities.

Wider Monsoon Patterns Affecting Northern India

This recent spell of weather is part of a larger pattern of an early and more intense monsoon across India. The southwest monsoon arrived in northern India about eight days ahead of schedule, a surprise for meteorologists, and has brought with it heavy rainfall, flooding, and thunderstorms in several regions including central and southern India.

According to the IMD, the monsoon remains active across central India and is gradually advancing towards northwestern states such as Delhi, Haryana, Punjab, and parts of Uttar Pradesh. As the monsoon axis shifts, further rainfall is expected over the next week, likely to cause continued disruptions.

This early onset has already affected daily routines across many cities, with waterlogged streets, train cancellations, and flight rescheduling becoming common. Even in Delhi, where infrastructure is relatively advanced, the volume of commuters has meant that even brief storms can cause significant delays.

Travel Precautions for Passengers

Given the unpredictable weather patterns, Delhi’s airport authorities are urging travellers to exercise caution and plan their journeys carefully. Key recommendations include:

• Checking flight status online or via airline apps before heading to the airport.
• Arriving early, especially during busy periods or when bad weather is forecast.
• Using the Metro, taxis, or other public transport to avoid traffic delays caused by flooded roads.
• Carrying essentials such as umbrellas or raincoats.
• Allowing extra time for connecting flights, both domestic and international, to account for possible delays.

Both the domestic and international terminals are implementing additional measures, such as increased staffing and real-time flight information updates, to ensure smooth operations despite the weather challenges.

Preparing for an Unpredictable Monsoon

As the monsoon continues its active phase, residents and visitors are advised to stay alert and flexible with travel plans. The unusually early monsoon has introduced an element of unpredictability into the season, with varying intensities of rainfall expected across northern India.

While the rain offers some relief from the summer heat, it also raises the likelihood of disruptions, especially around transit hubs like airports. Travellers are advised to stay updated with official weather and travel advisories and to remain adaptable in their schedules. Meanwhile, Delhi airport remains vigilant, prioritising passenger safety and operational efficiency amid ongoing rainfall and overcast skies.