Delhi International Airport – Indira Gandhi International Airport (IATA: DEL – ICAO: VIDP) is the primary international airport serving the capital city of India, New Delhi. Located in the southwestern part of the city, it is one of the busiest in South Asia and a central hub for international, domestic, and cargo flights. It is the primary base for Air India, IndiGo, and Vistara.

DEL handles over 65 million passengers annually and is known for its modern terminals, excellent connectivity, and extensive range of passenger services. It is a key aviation hub for South and Central Asia, connecting the Indian subcontinent with the rest of the world.

The airport has advanced technology to manage flights and passenger flow smoothly. It offers a range of amenities, including lounges, shops, and transport options, making travel convenient and comfortable. It also maintains strict security measures to ensure passenger safety amid regional tensions.

Visitors and travellers using this airport can expect clear signage and helpful staff to guide them through the check-in and boarding processes. Updates on flight status and travel advisories are regularly provided to keep passengers informed during their journey.

General Information – Delhi International Airport

Location: Palam, New Delhi
Country: India
Airport Type: Public, International
IATA Code: DEL
ICAO Code: VIDP
Elevation: 777 feet (237 metres)
Coordinates: 28°33′58″N 77°06′43″E
Timezone: UTC+5:30 (IST)
Distance from City Centre: Approx. 16 km (10 miles) southwest of central Delhi
Website: www.newdelhiairport.in
Operator: Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL)
Services: Scheduled domestic and international flights, cargo, and general aviation

Airport Details

Runways: 3
Runway Designations and Lengths:
09/27: 4,430 m (14,534 ft) – Asphalt
10/28: 3,813 m (12,510 ft) – Asphalt
11R/29L: 4,430 m (14,534 ft) – Asphalt
Runway Surface: Asphalt
Runway Strength: Supports all aircraft up to Code F (including A380)
Fire Services: ARFF Category 10
Tower Frequency: Available
Ground Frequency: Available
Navigation Aids: ILS CAT III, RNAV, VOR/DME, GPS
Customs and Immigration: Indian immigration and customs are available 24/7
Aircraft Types: All aircraft, including regional, narrow-body, wide-body, and business jets
Terminals: 3 main passenger terminals (T1, T2, and T3)
Cargo Facilities: One of India’s largest air cargo complexes
Fuel: JET A-1
FBOs: Business aviation services via Bird ExecuJet, Indamer, and Tajsats
Equipment: GPU, de-icing, potable water, lavatory, hangar space, maintenance
Ground Services: Full commercial, general, and VIP aviation handling

Flight Operations

Permit Time: 48–72 hours for international general aviation with prior coordination
Permission Required: Yes, for non-scheduled and foreign-registered aircraft
Slots: Required due to high volume and airspace congestion
Aircraft Types: All aircraft up to Code F
Alternate Airports:
ATQ: Sri Guru Ram Dass Jee International Airport (Amritsar)
JAI: Jaipur International Airport
LKO: Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (Lucknow)

Contact Information

Enquiries: +91 124 479 7300
Email: contact@newdelhiairport.in
FBO Coordination: Via respective FBO operators or airport ground handling units

Passenger Information – Delhi International Airport

Immigration Requirements: Passport, Indian visa or e-Visa as per nationality
Crew Requirements: Passport, crew ID/licence, General Declaration, visa if applicable
Transport Options: Delhi Metro Airport Express Line, taxis, app-based ride services, buses, car rentals
Nearby Accommodation:
Close to Airport: JW Marriott Hotel New Delhi Aerocity, Holiday Inn New Delhi International Airport, Novotel New Delhi
In Delhi: The Leela Palace, Taj Mahal Hotel, The Imperial New Delhi
Currency: Indian Rupee (INR); international cards accepted in most establishments

Airport Terminals and Facilities

The airport has three main passenger terminals: Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3. Terminal 1 mainly serves domestic flights for low-cost carriers. Terminal 2 handles some domestic and regional flights. Terminal 3 is the largest, managing international and domestic flights for full-service airlines.

Terminal 3 covers a large area and features modern lounges, shopping zones, and dining options. The airport has free Wi-Fi, baggage services, and transit hotels. It also has parking spaces and easy access to public transport, including the Delhi Metro.

Passenger Services

Passenger services at Indira Gandhi International Airport include check-in counters, baggage handling, and security screening designed for efficiency. Special assistance is available for older people and passengers who need support. The airport offers various lounges, including premium airline lounges and pay-per-use options.

Multiple dining choices, from quick snacks to fine dining, are available. Duty-free shopping is available for international travellers. Additionally, amenities like currency exchange, medical services, and childcare rooms enhance passenger convenience.

Major Airlines and Destinations

The airport serves over 40 airlines, including Air India, Vistara, Emirates, and British Airways. It is a hub for several Indian carriers, facilitating domestic and international travel.

Destinations cover all continents, with frequent flights to major cities such as London, New York, Dubai, Singapore, and Sydney. The airport manages passenger and cargo flights, supporting India’s global connections and trade. For more details, visit the official Delhi Airport website.

Accessibility and Transportation

Different transport options will connect Indira Gandhi International Airport. Travellers can choose from public transit, taxis, private hire vehicles, and parking facilities. Each option is designed to suit diverse needs and budgets.

Public Transit Connections

The airport is connected to Delhi’s metro network via the Yellow and Blue Lines. This makes it easy for passengers to reach central locations like Connaught Place quickly and affordably.

Metro stations are available at Terminal 3, offering frequent trains. This service runs roughly every 5 to 10 minutes during peak hours, making it a preferred choice for commuters who want to avoid city traffic.

Buses also serve the airport, but the metro provides a faster and more reliable connection to the city. Passengers should check schedules in advance as bus timings can vary.

Taxi and Private Hire Options

Official taxi stands are outside all terminals. These include prepaid taxis with fixed rates, ensuring no surprises on the fare. Many taxis use meters, but prepaid options are often safer and more convenient.

Private hire or ride-share services like Ola and Uber operate at the airport. Dedicated pick-up points are located at each terminal and marked clearly for travellers’ convenience.

Car rentals with driver services are also available for passengers with luggage or families. These provide a more comfortable and personalised journey.

Parking and Drop-Off Areas

The airport offers several parking zones near each terminal with short-term and long-term options. Rates vary depending on the duration of stay, and payment can be made by card or cash.

Drop-off and pick-up points are well organised to keep traffic flowing smoothly. Designated lanes allow drivers to quickly leave after dropping passengers.

Special parking spaces and assistance are available for passengers with reduced mobility. These are close to terminal entrances for easier access and convenience.

Expansion and Sustainability Initiatives

Indira Gandhi International Airport has focused on improving infrastructure while prioritising environmental goals. The developments aim to support rising passenger numbers and promote eco-friendly operations.

Recent and Upcoming Developments

The airport recently expanded to increase passenger capacity and improve connectivity. A new terminal and upgraded runways allow it to handle over 70 million passengers annually.

Plans are underway to enhance cargo facilities and introduce advanced technology for smoother operations. These upgrades support growing international and domestic travel demands.

Additionally, the airport has increased its global reach, linking to 150 destinations worldwide. This expansion strengthens its role as a central travel hub in Asia.

Environmental and Green Practices

Indira Gandhi International Airport is Asia’s first to earn Net Zero Carbon Emission status under the Airport Carbon Accreditation programme. It aims to be completely carbon neutral by 2030, earlier than many global targets.

Key initiatives include reducing energy consumption by over 50%, using solar power, and improving waste management. The airport has implemented water-saving measures and promotes electric vehicles within its premises.

These efforts demonstrate a strong commitment to climate change mitigation and sustainable airport management. The Environmental Sustainability Management at Delhi Airport details its green practices.

Local Attractions

India Gate

A war memorial and popular public space located at the heart of New Delhi.

Qutub Minar

A UNESCO World Heritage Site and one of the tallest brick minarets in the world.

Red Fort

A magnificent fort from the Mughal era in Old Delhi symbolises India’s independence.

Lotus Temple

A Baháʼí House of Worship is known for its flower-like shape and serene atmosphere.

Connaught Place

One of Delhi’s top shopping, dining, and commercial areas.

Humayun’s Tomb

A stunning example of Mughal architecture and the inspiration for the Taj Mahal.

Travel Tips

Best Times to Visit:
Oct–Mar: Pleasant weather and festival season
Summer (Apr–Jun): Hot and dry; monsoon begins in July

Additional Notes:
Indira Gandhi International Airport is ranked among the best airports in Asia.
Terminal 3 is one of the largest in the world, handling most international traffic.
Delhi Metro provides fast and affordable access to the city centre
Language support, currency exchange, and medical facilities are widely available

Frequently Asked Questions – Delhi International Airport

The airport operates 24/7 but has specific timings for certain services. Passengers can move between terminals using free shuttle services. Terminal 3 offers various amenities designed for comfort and convenience.

What are the operational hours for arrival at the Delhi International Airport?

Arrivals at Indira Gandhi International Airport operate 24 hours a day. However, some airlines may have fixed arrival windows based on their schedules.

How can one transfer between terminals at the Delhi International Airport?

A free shuttle bus service facilitates transfers between terminals. The shuttle runs frequently and connects Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3.

What facilities are available to passengers at Terminal 3 of the Delhi International Airport?

Terminal 3 houses lounges, duty-free shops, restaurants, and Wi-Fi services. It also offers medical facilities, prayer rooms, and currency exchange counters.

Is there a facility to stay overnight within the Delhi International Airport premises?

Yes, there are specific resting zones and transit hotels inside the airport. These provide basic comfort for passengers with long layovers or night waits.

Which metro station is closest to the Delhi Airport, and how do I get there?

The closest metro station is the IGI Airport Metro Station at Terminal 3. Passengers can access it via a dedicated terminal exit and follow signs within the airport.

What landmarks or cultural significance does the Delhi Airport hold?

The airport features modern architecture that reflects Indian culture through artwork and design motifs. It is named after Indira Gandhi, India’s first female Prime Minister, marking its national importance.