Delhi Airport Guide 2025: Terminals, Facilities, and Travel Tips

Jun 09, 2025

Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI), situated in India's capital territory, New Delhi, is one of the country's busiest and most advanced airports, serving the people as a key gateway to major domestic and International destinations. Delhi Airport is based in Palam, which is nearly 16 km southwest of central Delhi. The airport is a hub for both domestic and international flights. The airport undergoes renovations throughout the year to enhance the travellers' services, experiences, and operations. In this guide, discover a handful of information about everything the Delhi Airport has to offer, including its terminals, facilities, transportation, Baggage, Airport or Web check-in, and some easy but crucial travel tips if you are having a trip at IGI.

Terminal Overview

Presently, there are three main terminals serving the airport, but currently, two are functioning, and one has been temporarily closed. Both terminals are used for all the current flight operations for domestic and international travel. Let's try to know more about these terminals.

Terminal 1 (T1)

Terminal 1 has recently completed renovations and now it is completely working. T1 mainly serves low-cost airlines like IndiGo and SpiceJet and is only for domestic travel. Terminal 1 consists of all the modern amenities and services, automated security checks, and connectivity with the other terminals for travellers, ensuring a seamless travel experience. The terminal has beautiful artwork highlighting Indian culture and heritage. Terminals also have many check-in counters, help desks, and information signs and boards.

Terminal 2 (T2)

Terminal 2 is temporarily closed due to major renovations to upgrade its infrastructure and facilities, so all flights from T2 have been shifted to Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 until further notice. It was opened on 1 May 1986 but remained functional until July 2010 for international flights and underwent a revamp and expansion. T2 will remain closed for repair, maintenance, and expansion till September 2025. Once Terminal 2 reopens in September 2025, it will add another 51 million to the airport's overall capacity, which is currently speculated to be 58 million yearly.

Terminal 3 (T3)

When it comes to flight operations, there is no room for doubt that most flights are operated from this terminal since all the international airlines land and take off from there. Terminal 3 is handling the largest number of flights and features many check-in desks, immigration counters, and baggage belts. It also has a multi-level car park with a capacity of 4,300 cars. T3 offers a vast range of amenities, including lounges, duty-free shops, dining options and more for passengers' comfort and convenience.

Airlines Operating from Each Terminal

The total number of airlines that are operating at the three terminals of Delhi Airport is more than 80, including both scheduled passenger airlines and cargo airlines. Some of the top airlines are giving their area operations from each terminal's airlines.

Terminal 1: IndiGo, SpiceJet, GoAir, etc.
Terminal 2: Currently closed; flights shifted to Terminal 1
Terminal 3: Air India, Emirates, United Airlines, Air France, British Airways, Lufthansa, Etihad, and other major international carriers

Transportation to and from Delhi Airport

Transportation to/from Delhi Airport is easy and hassle-free, thanks to the numerous transportation options, such as METRO/ AIRPORT EXPRESS (Orange Line), Bus, Taxi/cabs, trains, etc. Some of the popular ones are given, which you can consider as the best means of transportation.

Metro

The Delhi Metro's Airport Express Line connects IGI Airport to the main city, and it takes approximately 25 minutes to reach New Delhi Station. The metro station is located at T3. If you want to go to Terminal 1, a shuttle bus service is available from the nearest metro station, Aero City.

Taxi & Cab Services

Prepaid taxi services are available across all terminals and offer safe transportation, including App-based cab services such as Uber and Ola, which can also be booked. Auto-rickshaws are pretty affordable options, but you may need bargaining skills.

Airport Shuttle & Buses

A free inter-terminal shuttle bus service operates between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 every 20-25 minutes. AC buses run from Terminal 3 to various major parts of the city, including Kashmere Gate ISBT, Red Fort, and Connaught Place. The service is open 24/7.

Baggage Services & Lost and Found

Indira Gandhi International Airport offers baggage services 24/7 across all of its terminals, featuring luggage wrapping, excess baggage delivery service, Baggage pickup, and Drop service.
Here, all the IGI travellers must keep in mind that their travel baggage allowance varies based on which airline they are flying.
For any case of Lost and Found, a dedicated department operates 24/7 at each terminal, helping people find and claim their lost items at the airport.
Passengers must provide proof of travel and a government-issued ID to claim those lost items within a period of 90 days because, after that, they may go up for auction.

Check-in and Security Procedures

The check-in and security procedures at the Delhi airport are safe and smooth, but there is always a discussion over "Web Check-in vs Airport Check-in" since online check-in is easy but unavailable for some travellers.

Airport check-in counters are available for those who prefer in-person assistance or need to check in baggage.
Here, it is advised to reach IGI at least 2-3 hours early for domestic flights and 3 to 4 hours early for international flights so that your check-in and security screening will be done smoothly and conveniently.
Security checks are strict, so you must not carry items or anything that the guidelines don't allow.
The security staff will help you complete the security screening, so cooperate with them.

Check-in Procedure at IGI:

Firstly, as soon as you enter through the CISF gate, go to the Check-in counter at the Delhi airport.
Provide your ID and ticket information for verification purposes.
The desk agent will issue your boarding pass, which you can collect.
Later, you can step further towards the security screening.

Security Procedure at IGI:

As you pass the check-in, you will now pass through security screening.
Firstly, your luggage will be checked, and you will need to place all your hand baggage for screening, as well as mobile, laptop, and other electronic and metal items, in a tray.
At the check-in booth, you will need to undergo personal screening.
Collect your baggage and other items once the security check-ins are done.
Now, you can move ahead with other airport processes.

Note: Liquids, aerosols, and gels should be in a 100ml container or less and placed in a transparent, resealable plastic bag.

Airport Facilities and Amenities

The Delhi airport is fully packed with facilities and amenities so that travellers won't face any challenges and will experience a hassle-free airport process, such as Airport Check-in, shopping, dining, Wi-Fi, and more. Here are the main facilities that are popular among people.

Lounges

IGI Airport offers several lounges across its terminals, providing amenities such as Wi-Fi, refreshments, and relaxation to travellers. Popular lounges are available and accessible to travellers on Business and economy fares.

The Plaza Premium Lounge and the Encalm Lounge are available for paid or complimentary use through lounge access programs. These lounges offer wellness and spa services, traditional food, and branded shopping outlets. They are located at Terminal 3 for domestic departures, international arrivals, and departures.

Free Wi-Fi and Charging Stations

Indira Gandhi International Airport is offering free internet connectivity through Wi-Fi. Wi-Fi connectivity is available throughout the terminal, and you can easily connect by registering your mobile number.
Charging your devices can be an issue, but not at the Delhi airport since charging stations are located a few steps away at different locations near seating areas and gates.

Shopping and Duty-Free Stores

The terminal is filled with plenty of shopping outlets for appeal, electronic accessories, jewellery, gifts, leather items, cosmetics, perfumes, toys, and travel goods. The top places to shop at IGI are Armani Exchange, Hugo Boss, Balenzia, Levi's, and more.
Terminal 3 and Terminal 1 have a wide range of duty-free shops offering international brands and retail outlets selling snacks, beverages, and more. For duty-free shops, reach numerous duty-free stores across both terminals.

Dining Options

IGI has numerous options available at both terminals.
Plenty of food courts, cafes, bars, coffee shops, restaurants for casual dining, etc., can be chosen for refreshments and relaxation before and after arrival at the Delhi airport.
There might be different timings for all the stores, and they are subjective.
Some top eat & dine places are Tim Hortons, the Irish House, Cafeccino, Costa Coffee, Starbucks, Curry Kitchen, and more.
These places accept cash and cards, so it would be easy for you.

Special Services for International Travellers

International travellers can have special services at the IGI airport, so that their journey can become comfortable and accessible to them, and these include services such as a child care room, a cloak room, medical facilities, and others. Some of them are highlighted below.

Visa on Arrival

India offers a Visa on Arrival (VoA) facility for citizens of several countries, allowing them to receive a visa upon arrival at selected airports, including Indira Gandhi International Airport.

The Visa on Arrival service is available for tourism purposes and consists of an easy and quick process.
International passengers are permitted a stay of up to 60 days after holding a Visa-on-Arrival.
Travellers should ensure they meet all eligibility criteria and carry the necessary documents, such as a valid passport and return ticket.
Remember that Indira Gandhi International Airport has 48 immigration counters & 46 e-visa/Visa desks located at the Arrival Section and 60 immigration desks & 4 e-visa/Visa desks at the Domestic to International Transfer desks, where you can follow the signage to reach the immigration hall.

Currency Exchange

Currency exchange services are available at Delhi Airport, with multiple offices located in all terminals.
These exchange offices offer competitive exchange rates, and they will be a convenient choice for travellers to convert their foreign currency into Indian Rupees.
Some of the currency exchange services you can find at Terminal 3 are EBIXCASH, Punjab National Bank, and Thomas Cook.
Moreover, if you want to withdraw cash, there are ATMs at the terminal that dispense local currency and are accessible throughout the airport.

Medical Facilities

Almost all kinds of medical assistance are available and located within the premises of the Indira Gandhi International Airport for 24 hours a day.

If you want to address any health concerns that may arise during your journey or need any medical support before, during, and after the journey, then you can easily reach out to the airport staff, and they will guide you.
First aid stations and hospital facilities are also available to them, so in case you need any medical emergency, you should immediately contact airport staff or proceed to the nearest medical facility within the terminal.
Medanta is one of the medical facilities available inside the terminal, and 4 Medanta Centres are located at the Domestic Pier/ International Pier, the Transfer Area & Food Court at Terminal 3, and one Medanta Centre at the check-in area at Terminal 2.
For PRM or Passengers with reduced mobility, there is wheelchair assistance, and patients who need arrangements for oxygen and ambulance can easily find them by contacting them in advance.

Tips for a Smooth Experience at IGI Airport

If it's your first time at Indira Gandhi International Airport, then there are a number of things that you must keep in mind to have a smooth experience at the Delhi airport. Here is the list developed for you. You can read through it, ease your travel fear, and prepare yourself for the journey ahead.

Early travel tips:

It's advisable to arrive at least 3 hours before an international flight and 2 hours before a domestic flight to allow ample time for check-in, security checks, and other procedures.
Keep an eye on flight status updates through the airport's official website or mobile app to stay informed about any changes or delays.
Utilise the free Wi-Fi service available throughout the airport to keep in touch with loved ones or catch up on work.
Take advantage of the various dining options to keep yourself refreshed and energized before your flight.
Keep your belongings secure and be vigilant of your surroundings to ensure a safe travel experience.
Carry your travel essentials, such as ID Documents, Tickets, Boarding passes, Mobile Phones, and more, with you.
Apps like DigiYatra can be helpful, and you can also use and check the Live Flight Status Tracker and On-ground Traffic so that you can have a more hassle-free journey.
Keep your electronics silent, and use headphones when listening to music or watching videos.
For a hassle-free airport experience, use baggage facilities such as the Excess Baggage Delivery Service, Baggage Pickup and Drop, Porter Service, and Baggage Wrapping, which are available at the IGI.
Put your documents in your hand luggage, and ensure to check with the airline's website regarding the baggage restrictions.
Pre-book your parking so that you don't have to roam around trying to find places to park your vehicles, which can be a hassle.
Exchange your currency for the local currency of your arriving destination because some countries might require you to carry their currency for crucial expenses.

Future Expansion Plans for Delhi Airport

As the demand for travel has been increasing, the Delhi Airport is continuously evolving to meet the growing demands of air travel. Future expansion plans for Indira Gandhi International Airport include the development of a new terminal, Terminal 4, which aims to further enhance passenger capacity and provide state-of-the-art facilities and maintenance, and the redevelopment of Terminals 1, 2, and 3. Moreover, in the long run, it can be expected that some infrastructure improvements, such as the expansion of runway capacities and more advanced baggage handling systems, will streamline operations and reduce time. DIAL CEO Videh Kumar Jaipuriar said in his statement, "We are seeing almost 67,000 international travellers daily at T3, the international terminal. This translates to about 2.4 crore passengers annually (CPA). T3's international capacity is 2CPA, but it currently handles 20% more than that." He also shares future developments for T2 by saying, "We will be strengthening the apron, laying new flooring, and giving the terminal new washrooms and boarding bridges." These future plans reflect Delhi Airport's commitment to providing a world-class travel experience for all passengers.

Conclusion

As of 2025, the demand for travel domestically and internationally has been rising, and Delhi Airport is well-prepared to handle those demands. In this guide, you have learned about IGI's all services and features along with the travelling tips. IGI offers you a world-class infrastructure, expanded capacity, reliable connectivity, and plenty of exceptional passenger services. Whether you're a frequent flyer or a first-time traveller, IGI Airport will make your flying journey smooth, safe, and comfortable with a touch of leisure. So next time, when planning your trip to Delhi, use this guide and make your way to the Delhi Airport smoothly.

Frequently Asked Questions about Delhi Airport

Q1: Which terminal does IndiGo use at Delhi Airport?

A. IndiGo Airlines operates from Terminal 1 at Delhi Airport.

Q2: Is there a metro connection to Delhi Airport?

A. Yes. The Airport Express Line (Orange Line) connects the city to Delhi Airport.

Q3: Can I sleep at Delhi Airport overnight?

A. Yes. There are several designated areas where you can rest overnight at Delhi Airport.

Q4: Are there food options for vegetarians at Delhi Airport?

A. Yes. There are numerous dining options available, especially for vegetarians, across all terminals.

Q5: How early should I arrive at Delhi Airport for an international flight?

A. You should arrive at Delhi Airport at least 3 hours early for your international flight.

Q6: What are the different terminals at Delhi Airport, and how do I know where to go?

A. Delhi Airport has three terminals; your airline ticket will define your departure terminal.

Terminal 1 currently handles only low-cost domestic flights.
Terminal 2 is typically used for domestic flights.
Terminal 3 is used for both domestic and international flight operations.

Q7: Which airlines operate from Terminal 3 at Delhi Airport?

A. Here are some airline names that operated from Terminal 3 at the Delhi Airport.

International air carriers like Emirates, American Airlines, United Airlines, Etihad, etc.
Domestic air carriers like Air India, Indigo, Spicejet, etc.

Q8: How can I travel between terminals at Delhi Airport?

A. You can travel across all the terminals at Delhi Airport via free inter-terminal transportation options such as shuttle buses and cabs/taxis services connecting Terminal 1 and Terminal 3.

Q9: Is there free Wi-Fi available at Delhi IGI Airport?

A. Yes. Delhi Airport offers free high-speed Wi-Fi throughout the airport. Travellers can connect by selecting 'GMR Free Wi-Fi' and registering to use it for free.

Q10: Where can I find lounges at Delhi Airport, and how can I access them?

A. You can find luxurious lounges at Delhi Airport across all the terminals, and these lounges can be easily accessed using cash or a credit card to pay at the door. Sometimes, they are complimentary for selected passengers.

Q11: Are there hotels near Delhi Airport for layovers or overnight stays?

A. Yes. There are several hotels located near Delhi Airport, offering you convenient accommodations for layovers or overnight stays.

Q12: How early should I reach Delhi Airport for a domestic flight?

A. You should arrive at least 2 to 3 hours at the Delhi Airport for your domestic flight.

Q13: What are the transportation options from Delhi Airport to the city?

A. There are numerous options available for transportation from Delhi Airport to the city, including the Airport Express/Metro Line, taxis/auto rickshaws, app-based cabs, and shuttle buses.

Q14: Can I book a prepaid taxi at Delhi Airport?

A. Yes. You can book prepaid and authorised taxi services at the Delhi airport.

Q15: Does Delhi Airport offer facilities for disabled or elderly passengers?

A. Yes. Delhi Airport provides special facilities and assistance to disabled and elderly passengers, such as Reserved seating areas, Buggy services, Special PRM-friendly washrooms, and information desks.

Q16: Where is the lost and found counter at Delhi Airport?

A. Lost and found counters are located in all terminals. However, if you want to go to the main office, it is located at the Lost Property Main Office, Terminal 2, Departure Level, Near Gate No. 01, Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi – 110037.