Delhi Flight Delays: Why Are 400+ Flights Disrupted After a Dangerous 120 km/h Dust Storm?
Air travel across northern India has been thrown into chaos after severe weather conditions battered Delhi Flight Delays and several other states. Strong dust storms, heavy rainfall, thunderstorms, lightning, and squally winds have disrupted flight operations, damaged airport equipment, and forced emergency diversions. Passengers planning to travel in the coming days are being advised to stay alert as weather conditions remain unstable.
In this blog, we look at the latest updates on Delhi Flight Delays, the impact on air travel, the emergency diversion involving Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi’s helicopter, and the weather alerts issued across multiple states.
Delhi Flight Delays Triggered by Historic Dust Storm
Just days after reports emerged about aircraft and airport equipment being displaced by powerful winds at Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi has once again witnessed major disruptions.
A historic dust storm swept across the national capital with wind speeds reportedly touching nearly 120 km/h. The extreme weather forced airlines and airport authorities to issue urgent travel advisories, warning passengers about significant disruptions to flight schedules.
As a result, more than 400 flights were delayed, diverted, or cancelled, creating inconvenience for thousands of travelers. Some ground equipment at airport terminals also suffered minor damage due to the powerful gusts.
Passengers have been advised to check their flight status online with their respective airlines before leaving for the airport.
Airlines Issue Travel Advisory Amid Delhi Flight Delays
Major airlines, including Air India, have asked passengers to stay updated through official channels as weather conditions continue to affect operations.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has warned that unstable weather patterns and thunderstorms could continue to impact the region, making flight schedules highly unpredictable.
Airport authorities are actively working to normalize operations, but travelers should also verify their designated departure terminals before starting their journey, as operational adjustments may be made to manage traffic efficiently.
Current forecasts indicate that weather-related disruptions in Delhi are expected to gradually ease by June 14, 2026.
Why Are Delhi Flight Delays Continuing?
The IMD has forecast thunderstorms, lightning activity, rainfall, and squally winds across parts of north India through mid-week.
These conditions continue to pose challenges for flight operations, especially during take-off and landing procedures. Even when weather improves temporarily, airlines often experience ripple effects that impact schedules for several hours afterward.
To assist affected passengers, some airlines have introduced flexible rebooking options. For instance, Air India is allowing eligible travelers on weather-affected flights to make one-time schedule changes within a specified period through its booking management platform.
This ongoing weather situation remains one of the biggest reasons behind the current Delhi Flight Delays.
Odisha CM Mohan Majhi’s Helicopter Makes Emergency Diversion
In another weather-related incident, Odisha Chief Minister Mohan Majhi’s helicopter was forced to make a precautionary diversion and land safely at a temporary helipad near Puri’s Samanga Bus Stand area.
The helicopter was returning from an official program in Baripada on June 8, 2026. Reports indicate that it remained airborne near Bhubaneswar airspace for approximately 20 minutes while weather conditions were assessed.
Due to heavy rainfall, poor visibility, and strong winds reaching nearly 80 km/h, air traffic authorities at Biju Patnaik International Airport did not grant landing clearance.
As a safety measure, the helicopter landed in Puri, after which the Chief Minister and accompanying officials completed the remaining journey to Bhubaneswar by road.
IMD Alerts: Heavy Rainfall and Heatwave Risks Across India
While Delhi Flight Delays remain a major concern, severe weather threats are also affecting many other parts of the country.
Red and Orange Alerts for Heavy Rainfall
The IMD has issued red and orange alerts for extremely heavy rainfall in:
These regions face increased risks of flash floods, waterlogging, and transportation disruptions.
Northeast and Himalayan Regions See Intense Monsoon Activity
Sub-Himalayan West Bengal, Sikkim, and several northeastern states are experiencing rapid monsoon progression. Heavy rainfall and localized flooding have already been reported in some areas.
Thunderstorms Expected in Central and Eastern India
States expected to witness thunderstorms, lightning, and squally winds reaching up to 60 km/h include:
Heatwave Conditions Continue Elsewhere
Despite storm activity in many regions, intense heatwave conditions are still affecting parts of:
Authorities have advised residents to remain cautious as high temperatures continue to increase the risk of heat-related illnesses.
What Travelers Should Do Now
With Delhi Flight Delays continuing and weather conditions remaining volatile across several states, passengers should monitor airline notifications closely, arrive prepared for schedule changes, and keep alternative travel plans ready whenever possible.
The coming days will be crucial as meteorologists continue tracking storm systems that are influencing both aviation operations and daily life across India.
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