As the winter season sets in, dense fog and cold weather often lead to flight delays and cancellations, causing inconvenience to air travelers. The Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) in India has taken note of the challenges posed by foggy conditions and has issued Standard Operating Procedures (SOPs) to airlines to manage flight disruptions effectively.
The new guidelines, outlined in the Civil Aviation Requirement (CAR) Section-3, Series M Part IV, specifically address the facilities to be provided to passengers by airlines in cases of denied boarding, flight cancellations, and delays. The DGCA has made it mandatory for airlines to publish the reference of these CAR regulations on flight tickets, ensuring that passengers are aware of their rights and the procedures to be followed.
One of the key directives in the SOPs is related to the publication of accurate real-time information by airlines regarding flight delays. Passengers should have access to timely and transparent updates on the status of their flights, allowing them to plan their travel accordingly. This provision aims to enhance communication between airlines and passengers during periods of fog-induced disruptions.
Furthermore, the DGCA has emphasized the importance of sensitizing airline staff at airports to effectively communicate with passengers facing delays. Foggy conditions can lead to increased stress and frustration among travelers, and it is crucial for airline personnel to handle such situations with patience and clarity. The guidelines stress the need for continuous guidance and information to be provided to passengers, keeping them informed about the developments related to their flights.
In the context of adverse weather conditions, especially fog, airlines are advised to consider early cancellations of flights that are anticipated to be delayed for an extended period, exceeding three hours. This proactive approach is intended to prevent congestion at airports and minimize passenger inconvenience. By canceling flights in advance, airlines can manage schedules more efficiently and reduce the overall impact on travelers.
The issuance of these SOPs comes at a time when several airports, including major hubs like Delhi, experience disruptions due to dense fog. The winter season often sees an increase in the frequency and intensity of fog, leading to challenges in aviation operations. Flight delays and cancellations can ripple through the entire air travel system, affecting passengers, airlines, and airport operations.
The recent incident involving an IndiGo pilot being assaulted by a passenger highlights the stress and frustration that can escalate during flight delays. The passenger’s outburst was reportedly triggered by the announcement of a 13-hour delay. Such incidents underscore the importance of effective communication, transparency, and passenger management during challenging situations.
Air travel is a critical mode of transportation, and disruptions can have cascading effects on passengers’ schedules and travel plans. The DGCA’s proactive approach in issuing SOPs demonstrates a commitment to addressing the challenges posed by adverse weather conditions, particularly fog, and mitigating the impact on air travelers.
In addition to the guidelines for airlines, the DGCA’s focus on financial resilience and transparency is aimed at safeguarding passengers’ rights. By ensuring that passengers are aware of the CAR regulations and the procedures for handling disruptions, the aviation authority aims to empower travelers and enable them to make informed decisions.
As the winter season progresses, airlines operating in fog-prone regions are expected to adhere to these SOPs to minimize disruptions and provide a smoother travel experience for passengers. The collaborative efforts between the DGCA, airlines, and other stakeholders will play a crucial role in navigating the challenges posed by foggy weather and maintaining the efficiency and reliability of air travel services.