24 February 2026| Dubai, UAE [ Posted at 12:02 pm]
Flight operations between India and the UAE have hit turbulence as severe weather conditions in Dubai and Abu Dhabi trigger widespread delays. On February 24, IndiGo issued a travel advisory warning passengers of extended wait times and operational disruptions due to haze, fog, and rising temperatures.
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Why Flights Are Being Disrupted in Dubai & Abu Dhabi
Overview: Unusual weather patterns, including dense fog and hazy skies, have significantly reduced visibility, affecting flight schedules.
According to meteorological updates, Dubai experienced “very warm” conditions with temperatures reaching 31°C (88°F), and Abu Dhabi recorded similar highs near 32°C (89°F). However, the real concern isn’t just the heat: it’s the visibility.
Before understanding passenger impact, here’s what caused the disruption:
- Dense fog is reducing visibility to as low as 1.4 km
- Humidity levels at 100%, intensifying haze
- Low cloud cover, complicating landing and takeoff
- Real feel temperature near 91°F, affecting ground operations
At Dubai International Airport, early morning reports showed heavy fog and poor runway visibility, creating challenging conditions for pilots and air traffic control teams.
Official Advisory from the Airline
Overview: The airline has acknowledged the inconvenience and urged passengers to monitor flight status closely.
In a public statement on X, IndiGo confirmed that adverse weather in Dubai and Abu Dhabi may impact flight schedules. The airline said extended waiting times, both onboard and at airports, are likely as crews manage safety protocols.
Here’s what the advisory highlighted:
- Flights may experience delays or rescheduling
- Passengers could face longer ground waiting times
- Onboard delays are possible due to air traffic congestion
- Real-time updates are available via official digital platforms
The airline assured travellers that ground staff and crew members are working to ensure passenger comfort during extended waits.
How Weather Is Impacting Flight Safety
Overview: Aviation operations depend heavily on visibility and atmospheric stability.
While high temperatures alone rarely ground flights, the combination of heat, haze, and fog significantly reduces pilot visibility during critical phases such as landing and takeoff.
Key operational challenges include:
- Reduced runway visibility for landing aircraft
- Slower taxiing speed on the tarmac
- Increased spacing between aircraft for safety
- Delays in aircraft turnaround time
With unpredictable weather patterns continuing across the UAE, IndiGo Dubai flights are operating under strict safety compliance measures, focusing on passenger security over schedule adherence.
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What Travellers Should Do Now
Overview: Preparation and real-time monitoring are crucial during weather disruptions.
If you are travelling between India and the UAE, especially to Dubai or Abu Dhabi, consider the following steps before heading to the airport.
- Check live flight status via the airline’s website or app
- Arrive early, but be prepared for extended waiting times
- Keep essentials (medication, chargers, snacks) in cabin baggage
- Monitor weather updates for sudden changes
Passengers flying with IndiGo are strongly advised to verify their booking status before departure, as schedules may change at short notice.
Ground Operations Facing Pressure
Overview: It’s not just flights in the air; airport ground teams are also under strain.
Reduced visibility impacts aircraft parking, refuelling, baggage handling, and boarding procedures. High humidity and warm temperatures add to operational fatigue for staff managing aircraft movement on the runway.
Airports in both cities are implementing controlled departure sequencing to avoid congestion, which naturally extends wait times.
Will Disruptions Continue?
Overview: Weather remains unpredictable, and delays may persist if fog and haze linger.
Forecasts suggest fluctuating humidity and intermittent haze could continue, meaning IndiGo Dubai flights schedules may not immediately return to normal. Travellers are encouraged to stay flexible with travel plans over the next 24–48 hours.
At present, IndiGo continues to operate flights with adjustments based on safety assessments.
FAQs
1. Why are IndiGo Dubai flights today?
Flights are delayed due to dense fog, haze, high humidity, and reduced visibility affecting runway operations.
2. Are flights cancelled or just delayed?
Most services are delayed, but some may be rescheduled depending on weather developments.
3. How can I check my flight status?
Passengers should check real-time updates via official airline digital platforms before travelling to the airport.
4. Is it safe to travel during haze and fog?
Yes. Airlines operate under strict aviation safety standards and only delay flights when visibility drops below safe thresholds.
5. How long will delays last?
Disruptions may continue until visibility improves and weather conditions stabilise.
Conclusion
Severe weather conditions across Dubai and Abu Dhabi have disrupted flight schedules, leading to longer wait times and operational delays. While the situation remains fluid, airlines, like IndiGo, are prioritising passenger safety above all else. Travellers are advised to monitor updates closely, remain patient, and prepare for possible schedule changes until normal operations resume.
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