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New Delhi Indira Gandhi Airport DEL Airport Traveler Guide

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DEL Airport Insights & Guide

Key DEL Airport Topics:

Getting to Know DEL Airport

Explore the gateway to India at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi Airport, the nation's busiest hub with a unique Lotus Temple-inspired design in Terminal 3. Simplify your journey through DEL with our concise guide, offering everything from flight updates to dining options. Dive deeper into navigating airports with ease by visiting our Comprehensive Airport Guide.

WATCH VIDEO: Experience an evening arrival at New Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport with a virtual tour by VirtCam:

DEL has three terminals: Domestic Terminal, International Terminal, and Main Terminal. The Domestic Terminal has 4 gates and is used by airlines such as Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet. The International Terminal has 15 gates and is used by major airlines such as Air France, Emirates, and Qatar Airways. The Main Terminal has 78 gates and is used by a variety of airlines, including both domestic and international carriers.

When navigating the airport, it's important to know which terminal your airline is using. Be sure to check your boarding pass or with your airline before heading to the airport. Once you arrive, there are plenty of signs and information desks to help guide you to your gate. If you need assistance, don't hesitate to ask an airport staff member for help.

Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.

Connecting Between Terminals

DEL Airport has three terminals: Domestic Terminal, International Terminal, and Main Terminal. The terminals are connected by a complimentary shuttle bus service that runs 24/7. The shuttle bus is a convenient way to travel between the terminals and takes approximately 20-30 minutes to complete the journey.

If you prefer to walk, there is a covered walkway that connects Terminal 1 (Domestic Terminal) and Terminal 3(International Terminal). The walkway is approximately 15-20 minutes long and is a good option if you have time and want to stretch your legs.

Frequent Flier Tips

To help make your experience at Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from DEL-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:

Navigating the Terminals

"At DEL, Terminal 3 is the main international terminal and it's quite large. If you have a connecting flight, make sure to allow extra time to navigate between gates. There are plenty of signs, but it's easy to get turned around." — Priya K., Gurgaon, July 2023

"For domestic flights, Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are your go-to spots. Terminal 1 is mainly used by low-cost carriers like IndiGo and SpiceJet. Terminal 2 is currently being used for overflow from Terminal 3, so check your ticket closely." — Rajiv M., Noida, August 2023

Getting To/From the City

"The Delhi Metro's Airport Express Line is a quick and efficient way to get to the city center. It takes about 20 minutes to reach New Delhi Station from Terminal 3. It's a lot cheaper than a taxi and avoids the traffic." — Anjali S., New Delhi, September 2023

"If you prefer a taxi, use the prepaid taxi service available at the airport. It’s more reliable and you won’t have to worry about haggling over the fare." — Vikram C., Faridabad, October 2023

Parking

"If you're driving to the airport, the multi-level car parking at Terminal 3 is your best bet. It's well-organized and has plenty of spaces, but do book online in advance to secure a spot and get a discount." — Neha P., Ghaziabad, November 2023

"For short-term parking, the surface parking lots near Terminal 1 and Terminal 2 are convenient and reasonably priced. Just make sure to note where you parked, as the lots can get quite full." — Arjun R., Delhi, December 2023

Inside the Airport

"Terminal 3 has a great selection of food and shopping options. If you have a long layover, check out the Plaza Premium Lounge for some relaxation. It’s worth the entry fee for the comfort and amenities." — Ritu J., Gurugram, January 2024

"Don't miss out on the duty-free shopping at Terminal 3. They have a wide range of products, and the prices are often better than in the city. Just keep an eye on your boarding time so you don't miss your flight." — Manish K., Noida, February 2024

Avoiding Delays and Stress

"Security lines can get long, especially during peak hours. Arrive at least 3 hours before your international flight and 2 hours before a domestic flight to avoid any last-minute stress." — Suman L., Delhi, March 2024

"Use the DigiYatra app for a smoother check-in process. It allows you to use facial recognition for a faster and contactless experience at various checkpoints." — Rohit B., Gurgaon, April 2024

"Keep an eye on the flight information displays throughout the airport. They are updated regularly and can help you stay informed about any gate changes or delays." — Kavita T., New Delhi, May 2024

iFly Tip: Find answers to your travel questions by visiting our comprehensive travel resource page.

Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers

When it comes to picking up and dropping off passengers at DEL, there are a few things to keep in mind. First and foremost, curbside parking is strictly prohibited at the airport. This means that drivers cannot park their vehicles on the side of the road to wait for their passengers. Instead, there are designated pick-up and drop-off zones located near each of the airport terminals.

If you need to wait for your arriving passenger, there are cell-phone waiting areas available at the airport. These areas are free of charge and provide a convenient place to wait until your passenger has collected their luggage and is ready to be picked up. The cell-phone waiting areas are located near each of the airport terminals and can be accessed by following the signs.

It's important to note that the New Delhi Indira Gandhi Airport has three terminals: the Domestic Terminal, the International Terminal, and the Main Terminal. Be sure to check which terminal your passenger will be arriving or departing from in order to ensure a smooth pick-up or drop-off experience.

Parking Facilities & Options

If you're driving to DEL Airport, you'll have a few parking options to choose from. The airport has several parking lots and garages located near the Domestic Terminal, International Terminal, and Main Terminal. You can park your vehicle for short-term or long-term stays, depending on your needs.

If you're waiting to pick up arriving passengers, you can use the cell phone waiting area located near the airport's entrance. This area allows you to wait in your car until your passengers are ready to be picked up.

If you require handicapped parking, there are designated spots available in all parking areas. The airport also provides wheelchair assistance to passengers who need it.

If you're looking for a more economical parking option, off-airport parking is available nearby. These lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport, and can be a cost-effective alternative to parking directly at the airport.

Get details about the airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.

Transportation Options

New Delhi Indira Gandhi Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options to help you get to your destination. If you prefer to rent a car, major car rental providers such as Avis, Hertz, and Budget have facilities at the airport. Taxis are also readily available, with designated drop-off areas outside each terminal. Fares are calculated based on distance and are regulated by the government.

If you're looking for a more affordable option, shared ride services such as Uber and Ola are available. Pickup areas are located outside each terminal, but please note that there may be restrictions on the number of passengers and luggage allowed. Alternatively, you can take advantage of the airport shuttle service, which offers transportation to and from select hotels in the city. Pickup areas are clearly marked outside each terminal, and fares vary depending on your destination.

If you prefer to use public transportation, the Delhi Metro is a convenient option. The airport has its own metro station, which connects to the city's extensive metro network. Trains run every few minutes and fares are based on distance traveled. Additionally, local buses and auto-rickshaws are available outside the airport for those who prefer a more traditional mode of transportation.

iFly Tip: Discover strategies for a smoother journey on our overweight passengers page.

Airport Hotels

When traveling, convenience is key, especially when it comes to accommodations. For those flying into or out of a certain airport, there are plenty of nearby hotels that offer comfort, convenience, and easy access to the airport and local attractions. From luxury suites to budget-friendly rooms, these hotels cater to a wide range of preferences and budgets. These hotels are not just close to the airport, but also provide easy access to iconic landmarks and bustling markets. Whether you're a business traveler needing a quick commute or a tourist looking to explore, these Indira Gandhi Airport Hotels offer a perfect blend of comfort, convenience, and accessibility.

Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport

the airport offers a wide range of dining and shopping options for travelers. Whether you're looking for a quick bite or a sit-down meal, you'll find plenty of options to choose from. Some of the recommended restaurants include The Great Kabab Factory, which offers delicious Indian cuisine, and Cafe Delhi Heights, which serves up a variety of international dishes. If you're in the mood for something sweet, head to Bikanervala for some mouthwatering Indian sweets and snacks.

When it comes to shopping, New Delhi Indira Gandhi Airport has plenty of stores to choose from. For luxury fashion and accessories, head to Hermes or Burberry. If you're looking for souvenirs to take home, check out the Fabindia store for unique Indian handicrafts and textiles. And if you need to pick up any last-minute travel essentials, there are several convenience stores located throughout the airport.

The locations of all food, shops, and services at New Delhi Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, explore the facilities at this link.

Passenger Services

New Delhi Airport is one of the busiest airports in India, serving millions of passengers every year. The airport offers a range of passenger services to ensure a comfortable and hassle-free travel experience.

For those who need to stay connected, the airport provides free Wi-Fi access throughout the terminals. Passengers can easily connect to the internet using their mobile devices or laptops.

If you have lost something at the airport, the lost and found department is located in the main terminal. You can report your lost item at the department or online through the airport's website.

Traveling with children? The airport has dedicated children's areas in both the domestic and international terminals. These areas are equipped with toys, games, and other activities to keep children entertained while waiting for their flight.

Special-needs services are available at the airport to assist passengers with disabilities or limited mobility. Wheelchairs are available upon request, and there are designated parking spaces for disabled passengers in the airport's parking lots.

Need to do some banking? The airport has several banks and ATMs located throughout the terminals. You can easily withdraw cash or exchange currency before your flight.

If you require medical assistance, the airport has a medical center located in the main terminal. The center is staffed with trained medical professionals who can provide basic medical care and first aid.

Flight Status Info

As air travel becomes more popular, it's important for passengers to stay informed about their flight status. At DEL, there are a few ways to get real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

One way is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS), which are located throughout the airport. These displays show the status of all flights departing from the airport, including any delays or gate changes. Passengers can easily find their flight by looking for their airline and flight number.

Another way to stay informed is to download the mobile app of your airline. Most airlines have apps that allow passengers to check their flight status, receive alerts about departure delays or cancelations, and even check in for their flight. Passengers can also choose to receive notifications via text, email, or push notifications.

Lastly, passengers can check the status of their flight departure at DEL Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com. This website provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.

By using these methods, passengers can stay informed about their flight status and avoid any unnecessary stress or confusion at the airport.

iFly Tip: Make sure your carry-on fits airline standards by using our carry-on size guide.

Airport Facts & Stats

  • Location: New Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport (DEL) is located approximately 16 kilometers from the city center of New Delhi, India.
  • Terminals: The airport has three terminals: Domestic Terminal, International Terminal, and Main Terminal.
  • Airlines Served: Major airlines include Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet. For a complete list of airlines, visit the DEL Airlines Served page.
  • Passenger Traffic: The airport handles around 70 million passengers annually, averaging approximately 191,000 passengers daily.
  • Daily Flights: New Delhi Indira Gandhi Airport operates an average of 1,300 daily flights.
  • Top Destinations: The top five destinations served from DEL are Dubai, Bangkok, Singapore, London, and Kathmandu.
  • Hub Status: The airport is a hub for several airlines, including Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Vistara.

Airport History

DEL, located in the capital city of India, has a rich history dating back to the pre-independence era. Here are some significant events in the airport's history:

  • 1930s - The airport was established as a military airbase during the British Raj.
  • 1962 - Commercial flights began operating from the airport.
  • 1986 - The airport was renamed Indira Gandhi International Airport in honor of the former Prime Minister of India.
  • 2006 - The airport underwent a major renovation and expansion project, which included the construction of a new terminal building.
  • 2010 - The new Terminal 3 was inaugurated, making the airport one of the largest and most modern in the world.
  • 2017 - The airport was ranked as the 16th busiest airport in the world in terms of passenger traffic.

Today, DEL Airport continues to serve as a major gateway to India, connecting millions of passengers to destinations around the world.

Airport Contact Information

For more information about Indira Gandhi International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:

  • IATA Code: DEL
  • Airport Website
  • Phone: +91 124 337 6000
  • Email: [email protected]
  • Mailing Address: Indira Gandhi International Airport, New Delhi, Delhi 110037, India

Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).

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New Delhi Indira Gandhi Airport Q&A

The airport has three terminals: Domestic Terminal, International Terminal, and Main Terminal.
A complimentary shuttle bus service runs 24/7 between the terminals, taking approximately 20-30 minutes. Alternatively, a covered walkway connects Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, which takes about 15-20 minutes to walk.
There are several parking lots and garages near each terminal, offering both short-term and long-term parking options.
Yes, off-airport parking is available nearby with shuttle services to and from the airport.
Options include car rentals, taxis, shared ride services like Uber and Ola, airport shuttles, the Delhi Metro, local buses, and auto-rickshaws.
The airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options, including restaurants like The Great Kabab Factory and Cafe Delhi Heights, and stores like Hermes and Fabindia.
Yes, the airport offers free Wi-Fi access throughout the terminals.
You can report lost items at the lost and found department located in the main terminal or online through the airport's website.
Yes, the airport provides wheelchair assistance, designated parking spaces for disabled passengers, and other special-needs services.
You can check flight status using in-airport flight displays, airline mobile apps, or by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com.