Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu Reviews Flight Delay Protocols and Passenger Communication

Civil Aviation Minister K Rammohan Naidu recently convened a meeting to discuss preparations for fog-related challenges during winter. He urged airlines to inform passengers about flight delays and ensure check-in counters are fully staffed to reduce disruptions. Passengers can exit through airport gates if flights are delayed after boarding, following earlier norms.

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The meeting included Civil Aviation Secretary Vumlunmang Vualnam, ministry officials, DGCA, BCAS, IMD, Delhi airport operator DIAL, and airline representatives. They discussed progress in addressing visibility issues. Airlines must communicate potential delays or cancellations due to fog and ensure accurate passenger contact details during booking.

Fog Preparedness and Passenger Communication

Airlines have committed to using CAT II/III compliant aircraft and pilots at Delhi and other fog-prone airports. This compliance allows operations in low visibility. Of Delhi airport's four runways, three have CAT III ILS, enabling flights in poor visibility. The fog season typically begins in early December.

On Monday, poor weather in the capital led to 15 flight diversions and over 100 delays due to low visibility. If a delay exceeds three hours, flights must be cancelled. The BCAS circular facilitates smooth re-entry for passengers stranded on aircraft due to weather or technical issues, easing re-boarding when flights resume.

Ensuring Seamless Operations

Naidu emphasised the need for real-time coordination between Air Traffic Controllers (ATCs), airlines, ground handlers, and airport operators for seamless operations. He highlighted the importance of a passenger-centric approach during delays and cancellations.

DIAL has been advised to install LED screens at key locations for real-time visibility updates for passengers. Additionally, they should increase the availability of Follow Me vehicles to guide aircraft during low-visibility conditions.

The ministry stated that preparations for managing visibility challenges are progressing well with bottlenecks being resolved. Proper facilitation of passengers is a priority during flight delays and cancellations. Airlines must ensure all check-in counters are fully staffed to minimise inconvenience.

A drill involving stakeholders is being conducted to ensure readiness for such situations. The focus remains on minimising passenger inconvenience and ensuring smooth re-boarding when flights resume after delays.