Air India announced on Thursday (December 5) that it has implemented several measures to manage the impact of fog and poor visibility conditions expected this winter season. The airline faces significant disruption during this time, especially from flights operating in Northern India. To combat this, the airline has made adjustments to flight schedules, increased the number of CAT-III trained pilots, and introduced additional steps to mitigate delays.
The airline’s proactive actions come after it was fined Rs 30 lakh by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in January for not having enough pilots trained to fly in low visibility conditions ahead of last year’s fog season.
Focus on long-haul and metro flights
To minimise disruptions, Air India has optimised flight schedules, focusing on reducing the impact on long-haul and metro-to-metro flights that often connect with onward domestic routes during the “fog window.” Additionally, the airline has increased the number of pilots certified in CAT-III operations, which allow aircraft to land in visibility as low as 50 meters.
CAT-III, which refers to an advanced instrument landing system, is essential for safe landings in dense fog and low visibility conditions. Air India did not disclose the specific number of pilots trained in CAT-III but emphasized that the move was in line with enhancing operational safety during the fog season, which lasts from December 10 to February 10. The system allows flights to operate safely between 9 PM and 10 AM, the peak period for low visibility.
Airline to deploy additional staff
As part of its comprehensive strategy, Air India will deploy additional staff at airports, including those where flights are likely to be diverted, to ensure smoother passenger experiences during delays or diversions. The airline will also proactively inform passengers traveling to and from Delhi about potential flight delays or cancellations, offering complimentary rescheduling or refunds as part of its ‘fog care initiative.’
Earlier this year, Air India Express, the airline’s low-cost arm, was fined Rs 10 lakh by the DGCA for failing to compensate passengers whose flights were cancelled in August due to poor weather conditions.