On August 9, 2025, heavy rain and thunderstorms disrupted Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in Delhi, delaying over 300 flights. According to Flightradar24.com, the average departure delay was about 17 minutes, with some flights canceled. No flights were diverted, but the weather—marked by lightning and gusty winds—caused major issues. IGIA, India’s busiest airport with 1,300 daily flights, saw delays for flights like Air India’s to Chennai (59 minutes late) and IndiGo’s to Istanbul (2 hours late). An X post from @EconomicTimes said, “Delhi Airport: Over 300 flights delayed amid heavy rain, IMD issues yellow alert!”
Hundreds of flights stuck? That’s a rough day for travelers!
Rain and Red Alert
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) issued a red alert early Saturday for heavy rain, thunderstorms, and winds of 30–40 kmph across north, west, south, southeast, and central Delhi. Later, it was downgraded to a yellow alert, urging caution. Rainfall data showed 78.7 mm at Safdarjung, 100 mm at Pragati Maidan, and 80 mm at Lodhi Road in 24 hours till 8:30 a.m. The IMD posted on X, “Moderate rain, thunderstorms, and lightning expected. Drive carefully, secure loose items, avoid trees during lightning.” The rain caused waterlogging in areas like Connaught Place and Mathura Road, slowing traffic to a crawl.
Waterlogged roads and a red alert? Delhi’s having a tough time!
Airlines Issue Warnings
Airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and SpiceJet posted advisories on X. IndiGo said, “Heavy rain in Delhi is causing delays. Allow extra time for your journey and check flight status.” Air India warned, “Rain may impact flights to/from Delhi today. Check status and plan for slow traffic.” SpiceJet noted, “Bad weather in Delhi may affect flights. Monitor updates at spicejet.com.” Delhi Airport claimed operations were “normal” but admitted delays, with ground teams working to help passengers. An X post from @DelhiAirport said, “Inclement weather in Delhi, but our teams are ensuring hassle-free travel.”
Airlines and airport on alert? They’re trying to keep things moving!
Impact on Travelers
The rain didn’t just mess up flights—it snarled roads, making it hard to reach the airport. For example, a traveler quoted by The Economic Times said they left two hours early but still missed a flight due to traffic on Mathura Road. Some flights, like Air India Express to Bengaluru (1 hour late) and Akasa Air to Gorakhpur (27 minutes late), faced long delays. Cancellations were fewer, with Flightradar24 reporting three departing and one arriving flight canceled by 9:15 a.m. Travelers were urged to check statuses online and leave early.
Missed flights because of rain? That’s so frustrating!