Delhi airport adopts AI systems to minimise winter fog disruptions

Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) has implemented a comprehensive technological and infrastructure upgrade to counter the annual disruptions caused by dense winter fog. The airport operator, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), has integrated next-generation Artificial Intelligence tools, predictive analytics and real-time data systems to ensure smoother and safer flight operations during low-visibility periods.

At the core of this transformation is the Airport Predictive Operations Centre (APOC), a central command hub that merges live airside information, predictive weather modelling and operational data. This unified system enables faster, data-backed decision-making, helping optimise runway management, improve aircraft sequencing and streamline resource deployment when visibility drops.

Predictive weather modelling enhances planning

A key part of the airport’s upgraded fog strategy is the adoption of the Winter Fog Experiment (WiFEX) forecasting model—a long-term scientific research initiative. With an accuracy rate of about 85%, WiFEX enables IGIA to forecast dense fog conditions up to 36 hours in advance. This early insight allows Air Traffic Control, airlines and ground teams to plan proactively, reducing delays and enhancing reliability for passengers.

Runway upgrades boost low-visibility landings

The airport has also completed major physical infrastructure upgrades to support uninterrupted operations in thick fog. All three primary runways—1L/29R, 11R/29L and 10/28—are now equipped with CAT-III Instrument Landing Systems at both ends. The latest enhancement at the Dwarka end of Runway 10/28 ensures aircraft can land safely even in near-zero visibility.

These improvements allow IGIA to handle around 30 landings per hour during heavy fog, a critical capability for maintaining on-time performance. According to DIAL, the combined AI-driven systems and CAT-III readiness are expected to cut fog recovery time dramatically—from roughly six hours to just two. The upgrades are aimed at minimising winter disruption, improving passenger experience and strengthening IGIA’s position as the country’s most resilient aviation hub.