New Delhi, November 07: A major technical glitch in the Air Traffic Control (ATC) system in the capital Delhi on Friday caused widespread disruption in flight operations across India, affecting over 400 flights and leaving thousands of passengers stranded at the airport. The airport authority and airlines have issued an advisory in this regard.
The incident at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), one of the country’s busiest hubs, triggered a chain reaction that has affected flights across the country. The problem reportedly occurred due to a glitch in the Automatic Message Switching System (AMSS), which manages crucial air traffic control (ATC) data and flight plans.
In a passenger advisory issued by the airport authority and airlines, it has been said, “Flight operations at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) are delayed due to a technical issue in the Air Traffic Control (ATC) system. Their team is actively working with all stakeholders, including Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), to resolve the issue as soon as possible.”
The glitch in the Automatic Message Switching System (AMSS) at Delhi airport has started affecting operations at Mumbai, Jaipur, Lucknow, Varanasi and other major airports, as flights from Delhi to these destinations are getting delayed. However, AAI has clarified that no such technical issue has been reported at any other airport so far.
Airlines have issued advisories regarding this
Airlines have issued advisories asking passengers to stay updated about their flight status before arriving at the airport. Air India said in its advisory that a technical issue with the ATC system in Delhi is impacting flight operations for all airlines, causing delays and long waits at the airport and for aircraft. We regret the inconvenience caused by this unexpected disruption, which is beyond our control, and appreciate your patience.
Our cabin crew and airport staff are providing immediate assistance to minimize passenger inconvenience. We request you to check your flight status at https://airindia.com/in/en/manage/flight-status.html before heading to the airport.
Meanwhile, IndiGo stated in its advisory that the issue with the AMSS system affecting ATC operations is still being resolved, and until the system is fully restored, delays to the airline’s flights at some airports in Delhi and the northern region may continue. Passengers with upcoming departures in India are advised to check the latest flight status http://bit.ly/2EjJGGT before embarking on their journey and to arrive at the airport a little earlier than usual to allow additional time for travel formalities. Our teams are available at the counters and boarding gates for any necessary assistance. Thank you for your understanding and patience.