In a major breakthrough for Delhi's aviation sector, GMR Airports Limited, doing business as Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), said that Terminal 1 (T1) of Indira Gandhi International Airport will go back to full operations from April 15, 2025.
This is a major milestone in the ongoing modernization and expansion of the airport, which will become India's largest and most sophisticated aviation hub.
Part of the transition will see all the existing flights that are operating out of Terminal 2 (T2), which manages about 270-280 air traffic movements a day and handles more than 46,000 passengers, transferred to T1. T2 mostly handles Akasa Air and IndiGo Airlines. Transferring the flights to T1 is in preparation for handling increased air traffic demand and passenger service improvements, tremendously enhancing airport operation efficiency.
T1 terminal has also seen extensive development under the Phase 3A project, its area increasing from 55,740 sqm to 206,950 sqm. The modernization will enhance passenger experience but will also rationalize airport operations. Some of the major highlights of the new T1 terminal are:
1. State-of-the-art Technology:
- Facial recognition systems (DIGIYATRA) at all entry points for a hassle-free passenger experience.
- Automated Tray Retrieval Systems (ATRS) to speed up security screening.
- A high-tech baggage handling system capable of handling 6,000 bags per hour.
2. Passenger Amenities:
- 29 entrance points to decongest.
- Exclusive areas like prayer rooms, yoga spaces, lounges, baby care rooms, and quiet zones for relaxation.
- New food and retail choices, adding to the overall passenger experience.
3. Eco-Friendly Design:
- The terminal is designed to achieve LEED Platinum level, utilizing energy-efficient systems, natural light, and green building infrastructure to reduce environmental footprints.
- Delhi Airport has already achieved recognition as Asia’s first airport to attain Net Zero Carbon Emission status, as part of the ACI’s Airport Carbon Accreditation programme.
DIAL CEO Videh Kumar Jaipuriar told about his joy in the switch, saying: "We are delighted to say that Terminal 1 will start functioning from top to bottom on April 15, 2025. It is a vital step towards offering a better experience to the traveler and facilitating rising demand for flying."
With the increased capacity of T1, Delhi Airport will be well-placed to manage the growing number of passengers, solidifying its position as a leading Asian aviation hub. The airport presently has three terminals: T1 (40 million passengers a year), T2 (15 million), and T3 (45 million). The upgrades in T1 will keep Delhi among the world's top aviation infrastructure.
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