Summary
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in Delhi is one of the world’s busiest and most advanced aviation hubs, ranking 9th globally among the top 10 busiest airports based on total passenger traffic in 2024. Serving as India’s largest airport and a critical gateway for both domestic and international travel, IGIA handles over 61 million passengers annually and operates an extensive network of flights for more than 80 airlines, including major Indian carriers such as Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet. Its strategic importance in the global aviation landscape reflects India’s rapidly growing air travel market and the airport’s continuous expansion to meet increasing demand.
Since its initial development phase in 2006 to support the 2010 Commonwealth Games, IGIA has undergone significant infrastructural growth, including the inauguration of Terminal 3 in 2010—one of the largest airport terminals worldwide with a capacity of up to 40 million passengers per year—and ongoing expansion of Terminal 1 to double its capacity. The addition of a fourth runway and elevated Eastern Cross Taxiway in 2023 has enhanced airside safety and increased the airport’s handling capacity by approximately 25%, enabling it to manage up to 74 flights per hour under optimal conditions.
IGIA’s development is complemented by major transportation upgrades, including the transformation of Bijwasan railway station into a multimodal transport hub and improvements in metro and road connectivity, designed to ease passenger movement and reduce congestion. The airport has also integrated advanced technologies such as Airport Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM), e-boarding, and RFID-based smart baggage tracking, which collectively improve operational efficiency and passenger experience.
Despite its rapid growth, IGIA faces challenges including operational disruptions caused by weather-related runway limitations and fluctuating passenger demand, particularly following changes in international travel patterns. Ongoing expansion projects, with investments totaling around ₹2,000 crore, aim to increase passenger handling capacity to 85 million in the near term and ultimately up to 100 million annually, ensuring IGIA remains a future-ready, world-class aviation hub aligned with global growth trends.
Overview
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in Delhi stands as one of the world’s busiest and most advanced aviation hubs, ranking 9th globally among the top 10 busiest airports. Since its inception, IGIA has undergone significant development, starting with the construction of its initial facilities in 2006 to accommodate the 2010 Commonwealth Games. The airport rapidly expanded its infrastructure, including a 4.43 km runway completed within 18 months and a terminal building capable of handling 34 million passengers annually.
A key feature of IGIA is Terminal 3, inaugurated in 2010, which serves as a major international and domestic gateway with a capacity to handle up to 40 million passengers annually. Terminal 3 is among the largest terminals globally, featuring four runways and modern amenities that cater to high passenger volumes and connectivity demands. Alongside Terminal 3, Terminal 1 has been undergoing a major expansion under Phase 3A of Delhi International Airport Limited’s development plan, aiming to increase its capacity from 18 million to over 35 million passengers per year by integrating new departure and arrival facilities into a single complex.
In recent years, IGIA has seen the inauguration of advanced infrastructure, such as the 4,400-meter runway and the 2.1 km Eastern Cross Taxiway (ECT), which enhance airside safety, reduce aircraft turnaround times, and increase the airport’s overall operational efficiency. These improvements, combined with the use of an Airport Collaborative Decision Making (A-CDM) system, enable the airport to handle a 25 percent increase in air traffic and manage up to 74 flights per hour under optimal wind conditions.
The airport complex includes co-located Terminals 2 and 3 in the southwest, served by the IGI Airport metro station on the Orange Line, which provides seamless connectivity to key city locations and surrounding regions. Additionally, ongoing infrastructure projects such as the upgrade of Bijwasan railway station into a multimodal transport hub and road expansions are aimed at supporting the growing passenger and cargo traffic.
IGIA serves as a principal hub for multiple Indian carriers, including Air India, Alliance Air, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, solidifying its role as a critical gateway to both domestic and international destinations. Its continuous expansion and modernization efforts reflect the airport’s commitment to meeting rapid traffic growth and maintaining its position among the top global aviation centers.
Passenger Traffic Statistics
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) in Delhi ranks among the world’s top 10 busiest airports, reflecting significant passenger traffic volumes. Annual passenger traffic data for major Indian airports, including DEL (Delhi), BOM, BLR, MAA, CCU, HYD, AMD, COK, GOI, and LKO, captures the number of passengers arriving, departing, or transiting through these hubs.
Globally, the airport industry has witnessed a rapid recovery and growth in passenger numbers following the disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic. The ACI World Airport Traffic Forecast 2023-2052, released in February 2024, projected global passenger traffic to reach 8.7 billion for 2023, a forecast that was remarkably accurate at 99.99% when actual figures were confirmed in July 2024. Projections for 2024 estimate global passenger traffic will rise to approximately 9.5 billion, surpassing 2019 levels by 4% and representing a 10% year-on-year increase from 2023.
At the regional level, IGI Airport’s performance is notable within the Indian subcontinent, as it consistently handles a substantial volume of passenger traffic contributing to India’s growing air travel market. This growth aligns with the global trend of increasing air travel demand, reflecting a strong rebound towards pre-pandemic levels and ongoing expansion.
Aircraft movements worldwide also surged in 2024, reaching 100.6 million, a 3.9% year-on-year increase and close to 2019 levels at 96.8%. The busiest airports, including IGI, contribute significantly to this volume, with the top 20 airports accounting for over 11 million aircraft movements, an increase of 5.4% compared to the previous year. This growth in aircraft movements parallels rising passenger traffic, underscoring the critical role played by major airports in the global aviation network.
Ranking Among the World’s Busiest Airports
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) in Delhi ranks 9th among the world’s top 10 busiest airports based on total passenger traffic recorded in 2024 by Airports Council International (ACI) World. This ranking considers both enplaned and deplaned passengers, counting transit passengers only once, reflecting the airport’s significant role in global air travel.
The 2024 data indicates a growing trend in global air traffic, with the top ten busiest airports collectively handling approximately 855 million passengers—an increase of 8.8% from 2023 and 8.4% compared to 2019 figures. IGIA’s position highlights its expanding capacity and importance within this context.
IGIA, India’s largest airport, efficiently manages over 61 million passengers annually and spans more than 5,100 acres in Palam, Delhi. Its inclusion in the top 10 busiest airports worldwide underscores its competitive international capacity and growing infrastructure. The rankings are derived from scheduled airline capacity data, which includes both domestic and international seats, with international airport rankings based on international airline capacity alone.
Notably, the 2024 rankings maintain consistency with historical data trends and continue to emphasize IGIA’s pivotal role in connecting India to the rest of the world’s air traffic network. The airport’s recognition alongside other global hubs such as Atlanta’s Hartsfield–Jackson and Chicago O’Hare further cements its standing in the aviation sector.
Key Infrastructural Developments and Expansion Phases
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) has undergone significant infrastructural developments and expansion phases to accommodate the rapid growth in passenger and air traffic, aiming to position itself as a future-ready airport. The expansion efforts have been organized primarily under the Phase 3A development plan, focusing on increasing capacity, improving operational efficiency, and enhancing connectivity.
One of the major projects under this phase includes the construction of the fourth runway and dual elevated Eastern Cross Taxiways (ECT), which link the northern and southern airfields. This new runway, inaugurated on 14 July 2023, has enabled the airport to handle approximately 25 percent more air traffic and has contributed to improved airside safety and faster aircraft turnaround times. The elevated ECT has further enhanced air traffic flow and operational efficiency on the apron area, reducing the need for Ground Support Equipment and ensuring safer operations.
The airport’s terminals have also seen extensive redevelopment. Terminal 1 (T1) has been transformed into an integrated complex by expanding its infrastructure, including capacity improvements at Terminal 1D (departures) and the addition of a new Terminal 1C (arrivals). This expansion has doubled Terminal 1’s capacity from 18 million to over 35 million passengers per year, integrating domestic departure and arrival terminals under one roof. The new Terminal 1 was officially inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi on 10 March 2024. Alongside this, modifications and upgrades are underway at Terminal 3 (T3) to support increased passenger flow and operational needs.
Connectivity improvements extend beyond terminals and runways. The nearby Bijwasan railway station is being upgraded into a world-class regional multimodal transport hub, enhancing access to the airport and significantly reducing travel time to the southern runways from up to 10 minutes down to just two minutes. This development is expected to ease traffic congestion and lower pollution around the airport area.
Further infrastructural enhancements include the planned installation of India’s first air train system at IGI Airport, scheduled for September 2024. This system will connect terminals, parking facilities, and other airport amenities, facilitating seamless passenger movement across the expansive airport complex. Additionally, one runway will receive an Instrument Landing System (ILS) upgrade to CAT III B standards, improving low-visibility operations and enhancing overall efficiency.
Collectively, these developments aim to increase the airport’s handling capacity to 85 million passengers per year from the previous 70 million, consolidating IGI Airport’s status as one of Asia’s busiest and a key aviation hub in the world.
Strategic Initiatives and Policy Influences
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) has undertaken several strategic initiatives to enhance its operational efficiency and passenger experience, particularly in response to challenges posed by the COVID-19 pandemic. Robson Freitas, who led the airport’s recovery plan, emphasized three main pillars for resuming operations: Health and Safety of People, Institutional and Integrated Communication, and Institutional Partners. These pillars encompass strict hygiene protocols, social distancing measures for passengers and staff, and collaboration with public sector authorities to ensure compliance with regulatory requirements.
In terms of infrastructure development, IGIA is undergoing significant expansions, including a major upgrade to Terminal 1, the addition of a fourth runway, new taxiways, and an expanded apron. These improvements aim to accommodate the rapidly growing passenger traffic and modernize the airport’s facilities. The project is part of a broader strategy to transform IGIA into a world-class aviation hub that supports both international and domestic travel, fostering trade and commerce.
Connectivity enhancements are also a key focus. The Bijwasan railway station, situated adjacent to IGIA, is being upgraded into a major regional multimodal transport hub with an investment of ₹270.83 crore. This upgrade, scheduled for completion in 2024, is expected to improve accessibility and integrate air and rail transport more seamlessly for travelers. Additionally, new flyovers have been constructed to reduce travel time and improve passenger convenience, with an estimated project cost of around ₹2,000 crore, targeted to be operational by the end of 2027.
Collectively, these strategic initiatives and policy-driven infrastructure projects demonstrate IGIA’s commitment to adapting to evolving aviation demands, improving safety and service standards, and reinforcing its position among the world’s busiest and most efficient airports.
Technological Advancements and Passenger Amenities
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) has implemented numerous technological advancements aimed at enhancing operational efficiency and passenger experience. One notable upgrade is the introduction of an e-boarding facility across all three passenger terminals in 2021. This contactless system allows passengers to scan their physical or electronic boarding passes at boarding gates, streamlining verification processes and reducing wait times during security checks.
To augment passenger convenience, IGI Airport has implemented the ‘BAGG TRAX’ smart baggage service utilizing Radio Frequency Identification (RFID) technology. This system enables travelers to track checked-in luggage in real time and receive SMS notifications with designated baggage belt information, minimizing the stress associated with baggage collection.
Premium amenities at IGI include lounges that offer a tranquil environment for both domestic and international travelers to relax before flights. Additionally, Terminal 3 houses a transit hotel that permits international and domestic passengers with connecting flights within 24 hours to book overnight rooms, enhancing comfort during layovers. Terminal 3 itself is recognized as an emerging international hub, providing extensive connectivity, access to global destinations, and a variety of retail and culinary options for passengers.
Looking ahead, ongoing infrastructure projects estimated to cost around Rs 2,000 crore aim to further improve connectivity and reduce travel time, with completion expected by the end of 2027. These efforts collectively underscore IGI Airport’s commitment to leveraging technology and passenger-focused amenities to maintain its status among the world’s busiest and most efficient airports.
Transportation and Connectivity Infrastructure
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) is supported by a comprehensive transportation and connectivity network designed to facilitate passenger and cargo movement efficiently. The Delhi Aerocity metro station serves as the main interconnectivity hub for IGI, currently operating on the Yellow Line, with the Golden Line expected to be completed by March 2026. The station is strategically located near the existing NH48 and Dwarka Expressway, enabling seamless road access to the airport. Additionally, the proposed Aerocity Inter State Bus Terminus (ISBT), located west of the Aerocity metro station adjacent to Terminal 1, is under development to enhance long-distance bus connectivity.
Complementing the metro and bus networks, the Delhi Aerocity RRTS (Regional Rapid Transit System) station on the Delhi–Alwar line is planned as an underground facility east of the Aerocity metro station, with an expected completion by December 2024. An at-grade Automatic People Mover (APM) light rail system is also proposed within the restricted airport area to provide quick transfers between terminals. Nearby, the Aerocity Passenger Transport Centre (PTC) is under construction to improve last-mile connectivity through autorickshaws, ride-hailing services, and taxis.
Road connectivity to IGI is further strengthened by the Urban Extension Road-II (UER-II), a 75.7 km-long six-lane expressway linking the airport to southern, southwestern, and western suburbs of Delhi, as well as to the Delhi-Hisar NH-9 highway. The Parallel Access Road flyover, extending over 600 metres near IGI, improves connectivity between Aerocity and the Hanuman Temple area near NH-8. This flyover enhances commuter travel to Terminal 2, the cargo terminal, and facilitates smoother transit between Gurugram and Delhi.
Rail connectivity is also being upgraded with the Bijwasan railway station, located immediately west of IGI on the Delhi–Jaipur line. This station is undergoing a ₹270.83 crore redevelopment project to transform it into a major multimodal transport hub, scheduled for completion in 2024. Further, under the National Capital Region Transport Plan, alternate airports such as Hisar International Airport, 190 km west of IGI, are being developed. A rail link between Hisar International Airport and IGI has been approved, connecting through Bijwasan, Gurgaon, and other intermediate stations to improve regional accessibility.
Metered taxis operate from Terminals 1 and 3, providing direct road transport to various parts of Delhi. This integrated transportation network, combining metro, bus, rail, road, and intra-airport systems, ensures IG
Economic and Operational Impact
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport has experienced significant economic and operational growth, driven by extensive expansion and modernization efforts aimed at meeting the rapid increase in passenger and air traffic. The airport’s development plays a crucial role in enhancing connectivity, reducing travel times, and improving the overall passenger experience, thereby solidifying its position as a major aviation hub in Asia and globally.
The expansion project, costing approximately Rs 2,000 crore, includes upgrades to Terminals 1 and 3, the construction of a new runway and taxiways, and the widening of access roads. These improvements are expected to increase the airport’s annual passenger handling capacity from the current 70 million to 85 million by the completion of initial phases, with further expansion planned to raise capacity to 100 million passengers per year and airside capacity to 140 million passengers annually. This capacity enhancement aligns with Delhi’s rising profile as a key international aviation center, facilitating increased tourist and business travel while supporting trade and commerce.
Operationally, the airport’s infrastructure upgrade involves relocating domestic arrivals to a newly constructed terminal, enabling the demolition of older facilities to streamline efficiency. Delhi Airport currently operates three passenger terminals (T1, T2, and T3) and a cargo terminal, with plans for a new fourth runway and Terminal 4 to further boost capacity. The fourth runway and an elevated corridor terminal were inaugurated in July 2023, marking a significant milestone in the airport’s phased expansion.
IGI Airport is managed by Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), a consortium comprising GMR Infrastructure, Airports Authority of India, Fraport, and Eraman Malaysia. The airport serves over 80 airlines, including major Indian carriers such as Air India, Alliance Air, IndiGo, and SpiceJet, handling domestic, regional, and international passenger and cargo services. This extensive connectivity contributes to the airport’s economic impact, promoting regional development and positioning Delhi as a vital node in the global aviation network.
The enhancements under the Master Plan 2016 and ongoing Phase 3A works ensure that IGI Airport is well-equipped to handle future growth, supporting India’s aviation sector and maintaining its status among the world’s busiest airports. As air traffic continues to rise, these operational improvements and expansions are expected to generate substantial economic benefits by boosting tourism, trade, and employment in the region.
Challenges and Criticisms
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport, despite its rapid growth and significant expansions, faces several operational challenges and criticisms. One major issue relates to runway capacity and management, which has been particularly highlighted during periods of adverse weather conditions. A critical upgrade to improve the airport’s fog-handling capabilities led to the temporary closure of one runway, significantly reducing the airport’s flight handling capacity. This reduction was further exacerbated by unexpected changes in wind direction, which limited the use of runways and caused flight handling capacity to drop from 74 to just 32 flights per hour under easterly winds, resulting in operational chaos and delays.
Additionally, the airport has had to adapt to fluctuating passenger traffic patterns, especially following the loss of certain international travel segments such as Umrah traffic. To mitigate this, airport management focused on attracting low-cost carriers and enhancing passenger services, but these measures also highlighted the airport’s need to continually upgrade infrastructure and capacity to meet evolving demands.
While the ongoing Phase 3A expansion is expected to increase the passenger handling capacity to 100 million annually within the next three years and improve airside capacity to 140 million passengers per year, the airport must continue to address operational challenges related to weather, runway management, and fluctuating demand to maintain its efficiency and service quality.
Future Plans and Prospects
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) is undergoing significant expansion and modernization to accommodate growing passenger traffic and enhance operational efficiency. A major project includes the development of a fully integrated Terminal 1 (T1), which is expected to be completed by the end of 2023 or early 2024. This new terminal will primarily serve low-cost domestic carriers, improving connectivity and reducing travel time for passengers. The overall expansion plan aims to make IGIA “future-ready” by addressing the rapid increase in air traffic and passenger numbers that have exceeded previous projections over the last decade.
The ambitious infrastructure upgrade involves not only terminal expansion but also the addition of a fourth runway, new taxiways, aprons, and enhanced airfield infrastructure to support increased aircraft movements. These improvements are part of a broader ₹2,000 crore investment to ensure IGIA remains a world-class airport capable of meeting future demand and improving passenger experience.
In addition to airport infrastructure, the Bijwasan railway station, located just west of IGIA on the Delhi–Jaipur line, is being transformed into a major multimodal transport hub. This ₹270.83 crore project, initiated in 2022, aims to enhance accessibility and connectivity to the airport and is expected to be completed by 2024.
With global passenger traffic projected to reach approximately 9.5 billion in 2024, reflecting a 10% year-on-year growth from 2023, IGIA’s expansion aligns with the increasing demands of the global aviation industry. As Delhi continues to ascend in global airport rankings, recently securing the 9th position among the world’s busiest airports, these future plans position IGIA to maintain its status as a major international aviation hub and meet the evolving needs of passengers and airlines alike.
The content is provided by Harper Eastwood, Fact-Nest
