Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has announced that the new Terminal 1 at Delhi Airport will commence operations on August 17. This terminal, a key part of DIAL’s Phase 3A expansion, was officially inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on March 10.
The launch of Terminal 1 is anticipated to alleviate congestion at Terminals 2 and 3, boosting overall airport capacity and enhancing the passenger experience. Starting August 17, SpiceJet will move 13 of its flights to the new terminal, with IndiGo following suit by transferring 34 flights from Terminals 2 and 3 beginning September 2.
Videh Kumar Jaipuriar, CEO of DIAL, commented on the new terminal’s opening, stating, “Delhi Airport is glad to announce the operationalization of new Terminal 1 from August 17, 2024. The state-of-the-art Terminal 1 will significantly boost our capacity, easing pressure on Terminals 2 and 3. Passengers can expect a smoother travel experience with improved amenities and advanced technology.”
The new terminal features several innovations, including a Mobile Check-in Service to help passengers avoid long lines at check-in counters. Additional amenities include an Automated Tray Retrieval System (ATRS), Individual Carrier System (ICS), and Self Baggage Drop (SBD) kiosks. The terminal also boasts an expanded Shop and Dine area, a prayer room, a yoga zone, quiet spaces, and other facilities designed for enhanced comfort and convenience.
Terminal 1 is well-connected with the Delhi Metro’s Magenta Line and offers regular bus services through the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC). A shuttle service also facilitates travel between Terminals 1, 2, and 3.
Cityside improvements at Terminal 1 include expanded parking facilities and reconfigured pick-up and drop-off lanes to better manage vehicle traffic. On the airside, a redesigned apron with 82 Code C stands, dual taxiways, and advanced technology ensures efficient aircraft handling, faster turnaround times, and improved air traffic flow.
Operations at the old Terminal 1 were halted in late June due to a roof collapse that resulted in the death of a cab driver and injuries to eight others. Recently, Murlidhar Mohor, the minister of state for civil aviation, stated that the civil aviation ministry has set up a high-level expert committee, including structural engineers from IIT Delhi, to investigate the roof collapse incident.
