Heavy pre-monsoon rain is playing havoc with India’s airports this week, disrupting travel plans for hundreds of passengers including many from Australia. Delays, diversions and cancellations have hit major hubs like Mumbai and Delhi, with weather warnings issued for over ten Indian states.
Mumbai bore the brunt of the rain early this week. Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport reported widespread delays affecting both domestic and international flights. The city’s roads weren’t spared either, as waterlogging made ground transport equally challenging.
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport was hit by a thunderstorm over the weekend. Winds reaching 82 km/h forced 49 flights to divert and delayed more than 400 others. Water also pooled on the roads leading to the airport, prompting airlines to issue warnings and urge passengers to check flight status before leaving home.
The India Meteorological Department has flagged further heavy rains and thunderstorms across Delhi, Bengaluru, Pune, Goa and the Northeast. The agency has called it an “early onset” of the southwest monsoon, contributing to the widespread disruption. The situation has disrupted not just flights but also train services and traffic in several cities.
Australian travellers with upcoming plans to visit India are being told to stay informed and check with airlines before heading to the airport. Carriers are issuing rolling advisories, and the Australian Government’s Smartraveller website is updating travel guidance regularly.
At this stage, while most international flights remain operational, delays are becoming more common, particularly on routes involving monsoon-affected cities. Travellers are being encouraged to allow extra time for airport transfers and consider flexible travel dates.
For those seeking more reliable planning, Palki Travels is offering tailored travel solutions to India and South Asia, helping minimise uncertainty during the monsoon months.
As the monsoon gathers pace, the situation may evolve further. Travellers are urged to remain alert, monitor weather bulletins, and plan with care.
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