New Delhi: The Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) is poised for a substantial capacity enhancement, projecting an increase of nearly 20% in passenger handling by 2029-30. This expansion will be implemented without the demolition of Terminal 2 (T2), as announced by the airport’s Chief Executive Officer (CEO), Videh Kumar Jaipuriar. The plan involves boosting IGIA’s annual passenger capacity from 10.5 crore to 12.5 crore through strategic expansions at Terminals 1 and 3.
These upgrades are part of a broader master plan that includes the construction of a new Pier “E” at Terminal 3, which is expected to add an annual capacity of 1 to 1.2 crore passengers. Additionally, efforts will be made to alleviate congestion at Terminal 1 and create more aircraft parking stands at Terminal 3.
Jaipuriar mentioned that the development of Pier E at T3, anticipated in the next 2-3 years, will offer flexibility for its use as either a domestic or international facility, depending on traffic demand. The airport currently expects to reach its existing 10.5 crore passenger capacity within the next 3-4 years.
Terminal 3, which currently houses four piers (two domestic and two international), will see one domestic pier converted for international operations this winter. The planned Pier E is expected to further enhance the terminal’s operational flexibility.
While the long-term vision still includes replacing the older Terminal 2 (built in 1986 and currently handling around 1.5 crore passengers), this plan has been put on hold for the time being. Terminal 2, following its recent refurbishment, will continue to be operational for the foreseeable future. The decision to replace T2 will be reconsidered once passenger numbers reach a critical threshold, typically when 80% of the current capacity is utilized.
Projections indicate that IGIA will reach its 12.5 crore passenger capacity by 2029-30. Last year, the airport served just under 8 crore passengers.
In preparation for the upcoming winter season, Delhi Airport is leveraging a data-driven system called the ‘airport predictive operation centre’ (APOC). This system shares real-time passenger footfall data with stakeholders like airlines and immigration authorities, enabling optimized personnel deployment at various touchpoints, thereby improving efficiency and minimizing disruptions.
With the combined effect of APOC and the upgraded runway 10, the airport anticipates a smoother operational period this winter, barring extreme weather conditions like prolonged fog.