International flights of Indian budget airlines from Delhi's T1 by 2027
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) could see a significant development by 2027, with budget airlines potentially operating international flights in addition to domestic ones from Terminal 1 (T1). Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) has initiated discussions with airlines to establish an international wing at T1, and more clarity on this expansion is expected by December of this year, as per a TOI report.
The plan revolves around utilizing an area between the forthcoming expanded T1, set to be completed this winter, and the runway nearest to the Dwarka side.
Old buildings in this space are slated to be handed over to DIAL by the following March, paving the way for the construction of T1's international wing. Once airlines confirm their intentions, tenders for the project will be issued, with the new wing anticipated to be operational within three years from the commencement of construction, potentially by 2026-27.
While IndiGo has long expressed interest in consolidating its operations at T1 instead of using all three terminals, Air India is reportedly considering T2, dating back to 1986, which is slated for demolition to make room for a new terminal in the final phase of IGIA's expansion.
Regarding the potential expansion of T1 to accommodate international operations, IndiGo CEO Pieter Elbers emphasized the growth of both the domestic and international markets in India.
He stated that the government envisions India becoming an aviation hub, particularly for passengers from Tier II and III cities. As airlines like IndiGo work to build networks to support this vision, discussions with the airport are ongoing, with a shared ambition to enhance capacity at Delhi Airport.
Sources have told TOI that, in due
