'Monitor Abnormal Surge In Fares': Centre To Airlines As Delhi Airport Ops Hit

The Civil Aviation Ministry has issued an advisory to airlines, urging them to avoid "abnormal surcharges" on flights to and from Delhi.

This follows the suspension of operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport's Terminal 1 after part of the roof in the departure complex collapsed.

Photo Credit: PTI

"In view of the unfortunate incident at Terminal T1D IGIA, Delhi, all airlines are advised to monitor any abnormal surge in airfares to and from Delhi and take necessary action regarding the same. Further, cancellations and rescheduling of flights due to the incident may be done without penal charges," the ministry said in a post on X.

The ministry had earlier halted all departures from Terminal 1, which handles around 1,400 domestic flights daily, until midnight. The incident occurred around 5 am, when the roof sheet and supporting pillars collapsed, resulting in one death, at least six injuries, and several disruptions at one of the world's busiest airports.

In response to the disruption and flight cancellations, the ministry intervened to prevent excessive fare hikes on the Delhi route. Low-cost carriers IndiGo and SpiceJet, which primarily operate from Terminal 1, have canceled several flights and temporarily shifted operations to Terminals 2 and 3.

Union Minister of Civil Aviation Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu inspected the damage and rescue operations at the airport this morning.

"Following the collapse of the Delhi T1 terminal this morning, I have personally inspected the site. Our immediate priority was the safe evacuation of all passengers from the terminal," Mr Kinjarapu said, adding that he would see that a thorough examination of the terminal's structure is conducted by experts to ensure safety.

Delhi has been experiencing heavy rain for the second consecutive day, providing relief from a prolonged heatwave. The city recorded nearly 230 mm of rainfall between 8:30 am on Thursday and 8:30 am today, marking the highest 24-hour rainfall in June since 1936.

The downpour has caused severe disruptions across the National Capital Region, with visuals showing flooded roads, long traffic jams, submerged vehicles, and stranded individuals.