Navigating Connections at Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport
Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) is a major hub for numerous airlines, making it essential to know how much time to allocate for connections. Located in the bustling city of Delhi, the airport consists of one international terminal and two domestic terminals, which can be confusing for travelers.
India's busiest airport can be overwhelming if you’re not prepared. With three passenger terminals, you may need a minimum of three hours for certain itineraries. International connections are generally faster as they occur within the same terminal, but other journeys might require more time.
International connections at IGI Airport are relatively simple. All international flights depart from Terminal 3 (T3), so there's no need to leave the airport area. Most flights should have a minimum of 1.5 hours set aside to account for security queues or delays on incoming flights. The process involves following signs to the transit area, clearing security, and entering the terminal.
Domestic connections, however, are more complex. Delhi Airport's three terminals are not interconnected by air or train, necessitating a road journey. Terminals 1 and 3 are approximately 6 km apart, and the free airport shuttle bus operates every 20 minutes. Passengers can also opt for a local taxi or Uber, which might take longer.
The newly expanded Terminal 1, inaugurated in March 2024, offers increased floor space and improved amenities. Enhanced security lanes and automated systems reduce queuing times. This expansion should provide a better experience for domestic travelers with more shops, restaurants, and passenger airbridges.
Your transit experience at Delhi Airport depends significantly on your terminals. While connecting within T3 is smooth and efficient, moving between terminals can be more challenging. Despite these hurdles, Delhi can still offer a pleasant international transit experience.
