Indira Gandhi International Airport

Indira Gandhi International Airport (IATA: DEL, ICAO: VIDP) is the primary airport serving Delhi, the capital city of India. Named after former Prime Minister Indira Gandhi, it is one of India’s busiest airports and a major hub for both domestic and international flights. The airport is operated by Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL).

History

Originally known as Palam Airport, it served as a military airbase before civilian operations began in the 1960s. It was renamed Indira Gandhi International Airport in honor of the former Prime Minister. In 2006, management was privatized under DIAL, which modernized terminals, expanded capacity, and improved passenger services. Since then, IGI Airport has become one of the top airports in Asia for passenger experience and operational efficiency.

Location

Address: Indira Gandhi International Airport, Palam, New Delhi, Delhi 110037, India
Coordinates: 28.5562° N, 77.1000° E
Distance from City Center: Approximately 16 km southwest of central Delhi

The airport is well connected by road, metro, and public transport to Delhi and the National Capital Region (NCR).

Terminals

Terminal 1 (T1)

• Usage: Domestic flights for low-cost carriers
• Airlines: IndiGo, SpiceJet, GoAir
• Facilities: Check-in counters, lounges, food courts, retail outlets
• Sections: T1A, T1B, T1C

Terminal 2 (T2)

• Usage: Domestic and limited international flights
• Airlines: Select domestic operators
• Facilities: Lounges, retail shops, dining areas, cargo handling

Terminal 3 (T3)

• Usage: International and some domestic flights
• Airlines: Air India, Emirates, Qatar Airways, Lufthansa, British Airways
• Facilities: Modern lounges, VIP services, duty-free shopping, baggage handling, food courts

Airlines and Destinations

Indira Gandhi International Airport serves flights to over 90 domestic destinations and more than 40 international destinations. Key airlines operating at IGI Airport include:

• Domestic: Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, Vistara
• International: Emirates, Qatar Airways, Singapore Airlines, Lufthansa, British Airways, Air France

The airport serves as a hub for Air India and Vistara, facilitating smooth connectivity for both domestic and international travelers.

Passenger and Cargo Traffic

IGI Airport is among the busiest in India:

• Annual Passenger Traffic: Over 70 million passengers (pre-COVID levels)
• Cargo Traffic: Significant volumes of air cargo handled, making it a vital gateway for trade and commerce in northern India

Facilities

The airport provides modern facilities for travelers, including:

• Business and first-class lounges
• Free Wi-Fi and charging stations
• Duty-free shopping and retail outlets
• Currency exchange and ATMs
• Medical facilities and pharmacies
• Parking and car rental services
• Assistance for differently-abled passengers
• Hotels nearby (Aerocity): JW Marriott, Andaz, Hilton, Holiday Inn

Transportation and Connectivity

By Metro

• Airport Express Line connects Terminal 3 to New Delhi Railway Station in about 20 minutes

By Road

• 24/7 taxis, ride-sharing services, and private cabs
• Bus services connect the airport to major parts of Delhi and NCR

By Car

• Accessible via NH 48 (formerly NH 8)
• Long-term and short-term parking available

Security and Immigration

• Advanced security screening with X-ray scanners
• Separate immigration counters for e-passport holders
• Efficient baggage claim and customs services

Future Expansion

• Expansion of Terminals 1 and 3 to accommodate increasing passenger traffic
• Additional runways and taxiways to improve operational efficiency
• Implementation of smart technologies for automated check-ins, baggage handling, and immigration

Awards and Recognition

Indira Gandhi International Airport has received recognition for:

• Best airport in India and South Asia
• Excellence in passenger services and operational efficiency
• Sustainable airport initiatives

Conclusion

Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is a world-class aviation hub connecting Delhi to the globe. With modern facilities, excellent connectivity, and continuous development, it serves millions of domestic and international travelers every year, providing a seamless and comfortable travel experience.