Dhaka Airport Diverts Eight Flights Due to Fog

Dhaka’s Hazrat Shahjalal International Airport experienced significant disruption today as dense fog rendered safe landings impossible, forcing the diversion of eight incoming flights to alternative airports. Airport authorities confirmed that the measure was taken on Sunday to prioritise the safety of passengers and aircraft.

According to officials, of the diverted flights, six were redirected to Sylhet International Airport, one to Kolkata Airport in India, and another to Hanoi Airport in Vietnam. The decision follows standard aviation protocols, which dictate that flights cannot land when visibility falls below a safe threshold.

An airport spokesperson explained, “The dense fog this morning created severely limited visibility conditions, making it unsafe for aircraft to land in Dhaka. Passenger safety is always our primary concern, and diversions were necessary to ensure there were no incidents.”

The disruption caused considerable inconvenience for travellers, with many experiencing delayed connections and long waits at their diversion airports. Commuters and business travellers reported frustration as they scrambled to adjust travel plans. Hotel services near the airport and passenger lounges were also placed under extra pressure due to the unexpected influx of stranded passengers.

Authorities added that once weather conditions improve, normal flight operations will resume immediately. They emphasised that such diversions, though disruptive, are a standard safety procedure and reflect the airport’s commitment to adhering to international aviation standards.

Meteorologists noted that early winter mornings in Dhaka are prone to dense fog formation, which can last several hours and significantly reduce visibility. Pilots and air traffic controllers coordinate closely during these conditions to manage flight diversions and prevent accidents.

Diverted Flights Overview

Passengers affected by the diversions have been advised to contact their airlines for updated arrival times and transfer options. Airport officials also urged travellers to monitor weather updates closely and expect intermittent delays during the peak fog season.

This incident underscores the impact of seasonal fog on aviation operations in Bangladesh and the importance of prioritising safety over schedule adherence. Authorities reiterated that, despite the inconvenience, all diversions were managed efficiently with minimal risk to passengers and crew.