Delhi Airport (IGI): Quick, Practical Tips for a Smooth Trip

Flying through Delhi Airport? It’s massive and busy, but a little know-how keeps things stress-free. Below are straightforward tips and the must-know services so you can arrive, transfer, or depart with confidence.

Which terminal should you use?

Indira Gandhi International (IGI) has three main terminals: T1 for low-cost domestic carriers, T2 for a mix of domestic and some international flights, and T3 for most international flights and major Indian carriers. Always check your ticket and the airline app before leaving — terminals can change last minute. If you have a tight connection, pick flights that use the same terminal or allow extra transfer time (90–120 minutes for domestic-to-international connections).

Getting to and from the airport

Fastest: the Airport Express Metro links central Delhi to T3 in about 20 minutes from New Delhi station. It’s reliable during peak traffic. Taxis and app cabs (Ola/Uber) are convenient but allow extra time during rush hours. Prepaid taxi counters and official airport cabs offer fixed fares — useful if you prefer predictable charges. If driving, follow signs for short-term or long-term parking; pickup and drop-off zones move quickly but can be crowded at peak times.

Check-in and security

For international flights, arrive at least 3 hours before departure; for domestic, 2 hours is safe. Use online check-in to skip counters when possible. Security lines vary: mornings and late evenings tend to be busiest. Pack liquids in a clear bag and have your ID and boarding pass ready to speed things up.

Immigration and arrival tips

Have your passport, visa, and arrival card ready. Use e-gates or e-visa counters if eligible. Baggage claim can be slow during peak seasons — track your bag via the airline app and head to the right carousel number. If baggage is delayed or lost, file a report at the airline desk before leaving the hall.

Lounges, food, and essentials

T3 has lounges (paid and airline-specific) with showers and quiet areas — handy after long flights. Food options range from quick snacks to full restaurants; prices at the airport are higher than the city, so plan accordingly. You'll find ATMs, currency exchange, SIM kiosks, pharmacy, and left-luggage counters in all terminals.

Tips when things go wrong

Flight delayed or canceled? Contact your airline first. For onward travel problems, head to the airline transfer desk in the terminal. Keep digital copies of tickets and IDs, and save customer service numbers in your phone. For medical help, airport medical centers and first-aid points are available 24/7.

Final quick checklist

1) Confirm terminal and check-in time. 2) Book metro or cab ahead during peak hours. 3) Keep documents handy. 4) Use lounges if you need rest. 5) Note airline desks for delays. Follow these and Delhi Airport becomes a simple stop, not a headache.

Delhi Airport Terminal 1 Roof Collapse: L&T Sets Record Straight Amid Tragedy

Delhi Airport Terminal 1 Roof Collapse: L&T Sets Record Straight Amid Tragedy

Ryno Ellis
29 Jun 2024

A tragic incident struck Terminal 1 of Delhi Airport as part of the roof collapsed due to heavy rains, causing fatalities and injuries. L&T clarified their non-involvement in constructing the collapsed structure. The incident temporarily halts operations at the busy terminal serving 1,400 flights daily.