Flight operations at Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International Airport (BLR) were heavily disrupted on Thursday morning as thick fog reduced visibility, causing delays to at least 41 flights from 5:30 am onwards.

Although Bengaluru experienced light early-morning rain, the Indian Meteorological Department (IMD) did not issue any major weather alert. However, the combination of fog, low clouds and moisture in the air created poor visibility, making aircraft movement difficult and forcing airlines to delay departures and arrivals.

IMD reports show that the sky was partly cloudy on Wednesday, but conditions worsened overnight as dense fog settled around the airport area. The weather forecast for Thursday indicates cloudy skies throughout the day and temperatures between 18°C and 28°C

By 10 am, airport meteorological readings showed Temperature: 20°C, relative humidity: 73%, visibility: 1,500 meters, winds: 14 knots, blowing from the East/Northeast and scattered low clouds at 800 ft and 1200 ft

These conditions made it challenging for pilots and air traffic controllers to maintain normal flight operations. Airport officials expect the fog to clear gradually, with smoother operations.

Thursday’s fog-related delays come just two days after another major disruption. On Tuesday, seven international flights scheduled between 1 am and 6 pm were cancelled after volcanic ash from an eruption in Ethiopia drifted into Indian airspace.

In addition to the cancellations, 12 more international flights were delayed and airlines held departures and arrivals until airspace conditions improved

Meanwhile, the Thiruvananthapuram International Airport has issued a passenger advisory about temporary airspace restrictions from November 27 to December 3 due to the Navy’s Operational Demonstration 2025. This may further impact regional flight schedules over the coming days.

With fog expected to lift as the day progresses, Bengaluru Airport officials are coordinating with airlines and air traffic control to bring operations back to normal and reduce waiting times for passengers.

Travellers are advised to check with their airlines for updated flight timings before heading to the airport.