Concerns over Indian pilots' alertness and review of fog preparedness

According to a new assessment, approximately 63 out of 100 pilots in India may be drowsy or asleep during early morning landings. A security review has expressed concerns regarding pilot fatigue and alertness. The study investigated how India's regulations concerning pilots' working hours affect their alertness during night flights. It was also found that many aviators experience frequent fatigue despite being on duty, raising questions as to whether current guidelines are sufficient to prevent pilot fatigue.

On the other hand, the Ministry of Civil Aviation has held the first meeting regarding fog preparedness for the upcoming winter season. Held under the chairmanship of Civil Aviation Secretary Shri Samir Kumar Sinha, this meeting reviewed the readiness for the 2026-27 fog season and coordination among stakeholders. Officials from the India Meteorological Department (IMD) stated that the fog season is expected to commence from 15 December 2026 and last until 15 February 2027. The primary objective of the meeting was to streamline airport operations and reduce the inconvenience caused to passengers due to fog.

The meeting was attended by DGCA Director General Shri Vir Vikram Yadav, Airports Authority of India (AAI) Chairman Shri Puneet Kansal, and other senior officials. The Ministry has instructed airlines to ensure the availability of qualified crew and aircraft complying with regulations for low-visibility operations. Airlines have also been instructed to create realistic flight schedules and make timely decisions regarding flight operations. Passengers should receive timely updates via SMS, mobile applications, and email regarding delays, cancellations, or rescheduled timings so that they do not reach the airport without sufficient information.

AAI and airport operators have been directed to ensure the readiness of Instrument Landing System (ILS) and Runway Visual Range (RVR) systems. The Meteorological Department has been instructed to provide timely updates through reliable weather forecasts and regular observations. Air Traffic Control and air navigation service providers have also been asked to adhere to safe traffic management and low-visibility procedures during fog conditions.

Special emphasis was placed on passenger convenience in cases of long delays and flight cancellations. Airlines will have to prepare to maintain adequate staff at check-in counters, helpdesks, and customer care facilities. The Secretary emphasized that helpline desks at the airport should have knowledgeable and competent personnel who can respond appropriately to passenger inquiries.

Meanwhile, other atmospheric conditions were also reviewed. Due to the arrival of Cyclone 'Ernab', the Ministry of Civil Aviation held a review meeting for the safety of flight operations. This cyclone is expected to hit the coast of Andhra Pradesh on Wednesday, 28 October 2026, with wind speeds predicted to be between 125 to 135 km/h. Consequently, flights are likely to be affected in the coastal areas of Andhra Pradesh and regions including Bhubaneswar in South Odisha. Delays may also occur in cities such as Hyderabad, Varanasi, Prayagraj, and Gorakhpur depending on the cyclone's path. Operations at Visakhapatnam Airport have been suspended since Tuesday afternoon, 27 October 2026, while all flights in Vijayawada and Rajahmundry were suspended after 7 PM on Tuesday. Airlines such as Air India, Air India Express, and Akasa Air have cancelled some flights to Visakhapatnam.