Early on 22 November, a software malfunction in Delhi’s Integrated Terminal Display System forced air-traffic controllers to revert to manual procedures, grounding or delaying more than 100 domestic flights and causing ripple effects across India’s aviation network. Low winter visibility compounded the disruption, with some departures delayed up to 5.5 hours.
Airlines—including IndiGo, Air India and SpiceJet—waived change fees and issued meal vouchers. DGCA teams were dispatched to monitor compliance with delay-compensation rules (₹5,000–₹10,000 for 4-hour holds). Business travellers reported missed client meetings and rerouted cargo, highlighting the fragility of India’s high-growth but capacity-strained airspace.
![ATC Glitch at Delhi Airport Triggers Nationwide Flight Delays]()
Because Delhi acts as a hub for onward international connections, immigration halls in Mumbai and Bengaluru also experienced surges as passengers re-booked via alternate routes. Corporates should advise staff to enable real-time alerts and consider buffer days for critical assignments during peak fog season.
The Airports Authority of India has promised temporary redundancy upgrades within two weeks, but full NextGen ATC automation—budgeted at ₹5,000 crore—will not arrive until 2027.
Airlines—including IndiGo, Air India and SpiceJet—waived change fees and issued meal vouchers. DGCA teams were dispatched to monitor compliance with delay-compensation rules (₹5,000–₹10,000 for 4-hour holds). Business travellers reported missed client meetings and rerouted cargo, highlighting the fragility of India’s high-growth but capacity-strained airspace.
Because Delhi acts as a hub for onward international connections, immigration halls in Mumbai and Bengaluru also experienced surges as passengers re-booked via alternate routes. Corporates should advise staff to enable real-time alerts and consider buffer days for critical assignments during peak fog season.
The Airports Authority of India has promised temporary redundancy upgrades within two weeks, but full NextGen ATC automation—budgeted at ₹5,000 crore—will not arrive until 2027.
