Breaking News: IndiGo & SpiceJet Suspend Flights in Leh Amid Heavy Snowfall, Delhi Airport Faces Major Delays Due to Thick Fog
Heavy snowfall hit Leh on Monday, causing significant disruptions to flight operations at Kushok Bakula Rimpochee Airport. Major airlines, including IndiGo and SpiceJet, halted both takeoffs and landings as safety protocols were strictly enforced. In an advisory, IndiGo noted, “Due to snowfall in Leh, flight operations, both take-offs and landings, have been temporarily put on hold. This may lead to extended wait times both onboard and on the ground.” The airline reassured passengers, stating it would expedite boarding once weather conditions approved.
IndiGo emphasized the importance of checking flight statuses before heading to the airport, as it continues to monitor the weather closely. “We understand that delays can be inconvenient, and we assure you that our team remains fully committed to making your wait as comfortable as possible,” it stated in communication to travelers.
SpiceJet also responded to the adverse weather, cautioning passengers about potential disruptions caused by the snowfall. “Due to bad weather in Leh (IXL), all departures and arrivals may be affected. Passengers are requested to keep a check on their flight status,” the airline warned via a post on social media platform X.
Further complicating travel in the region, several flights were delayed at Delhi Airport on Monday morning due to heavy fog and low visibility. Airlines announced delays for flights arriving and departing from the capital, adding to the travel complications experienced by passengers.
As winter’s grip tightens across North India, the India Meteorological Department (IMD) has forecasted cold waves and potential snowfall in various locations, including Srinagar, Jammu, and Chandigarh. The IMD suggests that isolated light to moderate rainfall or snowfall is expected in Jammu and Kashmir, Ladakh, and neighboring regions from January 5 to 6.
In addition, forecasts predict light to moderate snowfall in Himachal Pradesh and Uttarakhand during this period, with the possibility of ground frost in secluded areas of Uttarakhand. Cold wave conditions are anticipated across Punjab, Haryana, Chandigarh, Rajasthan, and Jharkhand from January 5 to 9. The IMD reports a gradual drop in minimum temperatures by 2 to 4 degrees Celsius over Central and East India within the next few days, with minimal changes expected thereafter.
Travelers are advised to remain vigilant regarding weather updates and to check their flight status frequently, as conditions can change rapidly. Airlines are committed to keeping passengers informed about any developments and delays caused by the wintry weather affecting flight operations in the region.
This evolving situation underscores the impact of winter weather on travel plans throughout North India, prompting airlines to prioritize safety while accommodating passengers in these challenging conditions.
Original Source: https://www.livemint.com/news/india/indigo-spicejet-halt-flight-operations-in-leh-amid-snowfall-delhi-airport-sees-several-delays-due-to-fog-conditions-11767587133235.html
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Publish Date: 2026-01-05 10:42:00
