Delhi Airport to Close Terminal 2 for 5 Months from April – Flights to Operate from T1
Delhi Airport’s Terminal 2 will undergo a major renovation for 4-5 months, leading to a temporary closure starting in April. During this period, all domestic flights operating from T2 will shift to Terminal 1.
Delhi’s IGI Airport Set for Major Upgrade. Travellers passing through Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), Delhi, should prepare for changes as Terminal 2 (T2) is set to close for extensive renovation.
Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has announced that T2 will remain shut for four to five months starting in April 2025 to undergo a major infrastructure upgrade. Here’s what you need to know about the upcoming changes.
Why Is Terminal 2 Closing?
The Terminal 2 (T2), originally built 40 years ago by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), is being modernized to meet international standards.
This closure will allow DIAL to implement a comprehensive modernization plan, ensuring that T2 meets the growing demands of domestic air travel. The refurbishment includes the installation of:
- India’s First Autonomous Docking Aerobridges: Streamlining boarding and deplaning processes.
- Modern Ceilings with Skylights: Enhancing natural light and creating a more welcoming atmosphere.
- Advanced Flooring and Improved Road Connectivity: Boosting accessibility and comfort.
Runway Upgrades and Capacity Expansion
In addition to T2’s renovation, one of the airport’s runways will also undergo upgrades. The runway will be temporarily non-operational as part of the Instrument Landing System (ILS) enhancement project.
This upgrade will bring the runway to CAT III B compliance, allowing for improved operations in low-visibility conditions, particularly during Delhi’s foggy winters.
Impact on Flights and Passengers
With T2’s closure, all domestic flights will move to Terminal 1 (T1), which is set to reopen by March 15 after a series of upgrades. T1 will temporarily handle an additional 15 million passengers who would have otherwise used T2. Travellers should check their airline’s latest flight schedules and terminal assignments before heading to the airport.
T3 to See a Shift in International Operations
To accommodate the increasing number of international travellers, IGIA’s operator is also planning changes to Terminal 3 (T3). Currently, airlines use part of T3 for domestic flights, but they will convert Pier C into an international terminal.
This move aims to handle the growing international passenger traffic, which has already exceeded the terminal’s rated capacity of 20 million passengers per year. The conversion will expand T3’s international capacity to 32 million, ensuring smoother operations for the next four to five years.
Delhi Airport’s Growing Passenger Volume
IGIA, one of the busiest airports in the world, currently handles around 109 million passengers annually. Terminal capacities are as follows:
| Terminal | Annual Capacity |
|---|---|
| T1 | 40 million |
| T2 | 15 million |
| T3 | 45 million |
T3 now manages 45 million international passengers, exceeding its initial design capacity of 34 million and highlighting the urgent need for expansion.
What This Means for Travellers
- Check Terminal Assignments: With T2’s closure, domestic flights will shift to T1. Passengers should verify their flight details to avoid confusion.
- Plan for Delays: With one runway under maintenance, minor delays may occur, particularly during peak hours.
- Expect Improved Facilities: The ongoing upgrades are set to enhance the overall travel experience with better infrastructure and operational efficiency.
Final Thoughts
The temporary closure of T2 is part of IGIA’s long-term vision to transform Delhi Airport into a global aviation hub. While the transition may cause short-term inconveniences, the upgrades promise a more seamless and efficient travel experience for both domestic and international passengers.
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