Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport is gearing up to ensure smoother and safer flight operations this winter, even during intense fog. The airport operator, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), has announced a series of advanced upgrades — including AI-driven systems, predictive analytics, and enhanced runway technology — aimed at reducing disruptions caused by low visibility.
According to DIAL, these modern systems will help maintain operational efficiency during Low Visibility Procedures (LVPs), which typically lead to delays, diversions, and cancellations across India’s busiest airport.
AI-Powered Control System to Improve Real-Time Decision Making
A major component of this initiative is the Airport Predictive Operations Centre (APOC). The APOC integrates real-time weather models, operational data, and ground-handling information into a centralized command system.
DIAL explained that this setup allows teams to make quick, data-backed decisions during sudden visibility drops. With AI and predictive analytics working together, the APOC optimizes runway usage, assigns aircraft stands efficiently, prioritizes aircraft sequencing, and ensures timely communication with all aviation partners.
This centralized, data-driven approach is expected to significantly boost the airport’s ability to maintain continuity and reduce operational disruptions during foggy conditions.
Runway Upgrades Enable Safer Landings in Heavy Fog
To further strengthen winter operations, IGI Airport, in collaboration with the Airports Authority of India (AAI), has completed a major airside upgrade.
Runway 10/28 now features a state-of-the-art CAT III Instrument Landing System (ILS) installed at the Dwarka end. With this upgrade, three of IGI's runways — 10/28, 11L/29R and 11R/29L — are now compliant with CAT III standards at both ends.
This enhancement allows aircraft to land safely even when visibility drops drastically due to dense fog. The newly improved runway, combined with existing CAT III runways, can handle around 30 landings per hour during low visibility, helping prevent long backlogs.
DIAL further stated that these upgrades will cut the fog-related recovery time by nearly four hours, enabling faster resumption of normal operations once visibility improves.
Fog Forecasting to Improve with WiFEX Data
Delhi Airport will also rely on the Winter Fog Experiment (WiFEX) for better fog prediction. WiFEX, led by the Indian Institute of Tropical Meteorology (IITM) in collaboration with IMD and DIAL, has been running as a decade-long research program.
WiFEX claims up to 85% accuracy in fog forecasting.
Specialized sensors collect data on temperature, humidity, air movement, aerosols, pollution particles, radiation patterns, fog microphysics, and visibility variations.
This data will power advanced fog prediction models capable of forecasting conditions 1 to 36 hours in advance.
According to DIAL, improved forecasting will enhance both flight safety and airport planning. It will also help researchers understand how local weather patterns contribute to fog formation in the Delhi region.
DIAL’s CEO: Upgrades Will Reduce Winter Disruptions
DIAL CEO Videh Kumar Jaipuriar said that although weather challenges cannot be eliminated entirely, the latest upgrades will significantly strengthen the airport’s preparedness.
“These systems will enhance our ability to plan, respond, and recover faster during severe weather conditions,” he noted.
Delhi’s IGI Airport handles one of the heaviest winter air traffic loads in the country. With AI integration, advanced analytics, and cutting-edge runway technology, the airport aims to deliver more reliable flight operations even during peak fog season — offering passengers a smoother travel experience despite unpredictable winter conditions.
