Why in news?
On 29 May 2026 Union Minister Dr Jitendra Singh inaugurated the countryโs first SkyCast system at Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi. The integrated weatherโmonitoring facility aims to give realโtime information on fog, turbulence and other atmospheric conditions to pilots and air traffic managers. Only 18 such systems exist worldwide; India became the 19th and plans to install similar facilities at Jewar and other airports.
Background
Aviation safety relies on accurate and timely weather data, especially in fogโprone cities like Delhi. The SkyCast system was developed under โMission Mausamโ by the Ministry of Earth Sciences and builds upon knowledge gained from the Winter Fog Experiment (WiFEX) conducted at IGI Airport since 2015. WiFEX analysed fog formation, aerosolโcloud interactions and visibility reduction. Lessons from that programme informed the design of SkyCast, enabling continuous monitoring of the boundary layer and fog at airports.
How it works
- Integrated sensors: SkyCast combines several instruments including a boundaryโlayer Radar Wind Profiler, a SODAR, a microwave radiometer, a groundโbased fog aerosol spectrometer and a Lidarโbased ceilometer. These instruments measure wind speed, direction, turbulence, humidity, temperature and aerosol properties up to approximately 3 km above the airport.
- Fog and turbulence monitoring: The system continuously analyses fog droplets, aerosols and vertical structure to provide alerts about fog formation and dissipation. It supplies pilots with shortโterm forecasts (about three hours) to decide safe landing times and reduce diversions and delays.
- Realโtime data integration: Measurements of wind, turbulence and moisture are integrated into a single platform that supports nowcasting for aviation. Data will also feed into broader weather models, improving forecasts for cities and disaster management.
- Expansion plans: After Delhi, a SkyCast facility is being built at Jewar Airport. The ministry plans to extend the technology to other airports and integrate aircraftโbased observations, making Indiaโs aviation sector more resilient.
Significance
SkyCast marks a major step towards fogโfree and turbulenceโaware flights. Passengers can expect fewer delays during winter, while airlines and pilots will benefit from early warnings and improved decision support. The system also contributes to better urban weather forecasting and supports Indiaโs ambition to democratise weather services for citizens.
Conclusion
By integrating advanced remoteโsensing technologies, SkyCast enhances aviation safety and reliability. Its expansion across airports will strengthen Indiaโs weather infrastructure, support air travel growth and help researchers understand atmospheric processes around major cities.