Over 100 Flights Delayed at Delhi Airport After Major ATC System Glitch

New Delhi – Flight operations at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) were severely disrupted on Friday after a technical malfunction hit the Air Traffic Control (ATC) system, affecting more than 100 flights and causing widespread delays across multiple airlines.

In an advisory posted on X, Delhi Airport confirmed the disruption, saying: “Due to a technical issue with the Air Traffic Control (ATC) system, flight operations at IGIA are experiencing delays. The ATC team is actively working with all stakeholders, including DIAL, to resolve it at the earliest. Passengers are advised to stay in touch with their respective airlines for the latest flight updates. We sincerely regret the inconvenience caused.”

The glitch led to long waiting times both inside the terminal and onboard aircraft waiting for clearance to take off.

Air India also issued an update, saying: “A technical issue with the ATC system in Delhi is impacting flight operations across all airlines, leading to delays and longer wait times. We regret the inconvenience caused by this unforeseen disruption, which is beyond our control, and appreciate your patience. Our cabin crew and ground staff are extending assistance to passengers. Please check your flight status before heading to the airport.”

An Air India passenger told IANS that cabin crew on delayed flights were informing travellers of the ongoing technical problem and requesting patience while the issue was being fixed.

IndiGo, India’s largest airline, also took to X to confirm delays: “Flight operations at #Delhi Airport are currently experiencing delays due to a technical issue with the ATC system. This is impacting flights at Delhi and across northern India. We understand the inconvenience and appreciate your patience.” The airline added that its staff were assisting passengers on the ground and in-flight, advising them to check the IndiGo website for live updates.

Earlier this week, the airport had faced a brief disruption due to third-party connectivity issues affecting the check-in systems of some airlines—a problem that was resolved on Wednesday. However, Friday’s ATC glitch is unrelated and has had a far broader impact.

Passengers are being urged to check their flight status frequently and arrive early at the airport, as authorities continue efforts to restore normal flight operations.

With inputs from IANS