Delhi Airport Gears Up for Growth and Innovation.
In a significant leap towards transforming air travel infrastructure in India, Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) is set to undergo a comprehensive makeover with a slew of major projects set to roll out over the next few months. These developments, poised to enhance passenger experience and improve operational capacity, will position IGIA as a future-ready airport catering to both domestic and international traffic.
As per Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL), the renovation of Terminal 1, which has been under restoration for several months, will be completed by March 15. Once security clearances are obtained, the terminal, now equipped to handle a staggering 40 million passengers annually, will be fully operational by April. This development is expected to streamline passenger traffic at IGIA, relieving the overburdened Terminal 2. Meanwhile, Terminal 2 will close for essential repairs and renovations, including structural enhancements, new flooring, washroom facilities, and upgraded boarding bridges.
The ambitious expansion plans don’t stop at terminals. In another bold move, DIAL is converting a domestic pier at Terminal 3 (T3) to accommodate international flights.
Currently handling over 67,000 international passengers daily, T3’s international capacity is expected to rise from 2 million to an impressive 3.2 million annually after the conversion is completed in 4 to 5 months. To facilitate smooth operations, additional immigration counters will be introduced, and part of the domestic security check system will be adapted to manage the increase in international passengers. However, this transformation will come with its own set of challenges, including the temporary closure of the domestic pier for a month prior to the conversion.This transformation comes at a time when air traffic is experiencing a steady surge. The increased flow of international travellers through T3, along with the traffic from Terminal 1, will inevitably lead to a rise in transfer passengers. With the air train still several years away, DIAL has outlined plans to increase the number of buses operating between T1 and T3, ensuring that passengers can make smooth connections despite the 7-kilometre distance between the terminals. These buses will also offer dedicated transfer lounges where passengers can board with their check-in baggage if travelling within the same airline group.
In addition to the terminal upgrades, IGIA’s flagship runway, 28/10, is set to undergo significant enhancements to improve landing capabilities during dense fog conditions. Currently, the Dwarka end of this runway does not meet the criteria for Category III Bravo (CAT IIIB) landings, a standard that allows aircraft to land with minimal visibility. Once the upgrades are completed, both ends of the runway will be able to handle landings in low visibility, ensuring uninterrupted operations during foggy winter months, a crucial development for one of India’s busiest airports.With these infrastructure projects, IGIA is preparing to meet the demands of a growing passenger base while staying aligned with sustainability goals. As the airport readies itself for these massive upgrades, it is important to note that sustainability is at the forefront of DIAL’s efforts. From greener construction practices to improving operational efficiency, IGIA aims to make strides in its commitment to a net-zero carbon future.
The transformation of Indira Gandhi International Airport is not only about enhancing capacity but also about creating a smoother and more secure travel experience. While these projects will cause temporary disruptions, they will ultimately result in a state-of-the-art airport that can accommodate millions more passengers, ensuring that Delhi remains a key global hub for aviation. The future of IGIA is being built today, with sustainability and passenger comfort at its heart, marking the airport as a forward-thinking and eco-conscious facility.
