India, Jan. 6 -- Every winter, a thick blanket of radiation fog descends upon the Indo-Gangetic plain, turning Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) into a high-stakes testing ground for aviation technology. While IGIA remains one of the most technologically advanced hubs in Asia, the persistent cycle of cancellations and delays raises a critical question: is the technology sufficient to match Delhi's extreme climate?

Before the winter fog arrives, Delhi's aviation systems face a different enemy; extreme heat. When temperatures soar above 45degC, the air becomes less dense. This "Density Altitude" problem forces aircraft instruments to work overtime.

Aircraft rely on air pressure to calculate speed and altitude. In thin, hot air, w...