Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi: Facilities, Transportation, and Hotels

Indira Gandhi International Airport, Delhi is one of the busiest airports in India and the largest airport in the country. The airport handles more than 60 million passengers annually, and it has won several awards for its modern infrastructure and efficient services. In this article, we will take a closer look at Indira Gandhi International Airport and explore its facilities, services, and history.

History of Indira Gandhi International Airport:

Indira Gandhi International Airport was established in 1930 as a military airbase. It was named after the former Prime Minister of India, Indira Gandhi, in 1986, after her assassination. In 2006, a new terminal was opened at the airport, which increased its capacity to handle more passengers. Since then, the airport has undergone several upgrades and renovations to improve its facilities and services.

Facilities at Indira Gandhi International Airport:

Indira Gandhi International Airport offers a wide range of facilities to passengers, including lounges, restaurants, duty-free shops, and ATMs. The airport has three terminals, with Terminal 3 being the largest and the most modern. Terminal 3 has won several awards for its design and facilities, including the Best Airport Terminal in the World award by Skytrax in 2012.

Some of the facilities available at Indira Gandhi International Airport include:

1. Lounges: The airport has several lounges that offer comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments to passengers. The lounges are available for both domestic and international passengers, and some of them are operated by airlines and others by independent operators.
2. Restaurants: There are several restaurants and cafes at Indira Gandhi International Airport, offering a range of cuisines and dining options. From fast food to fine dining, the airport has something for everyone.
3. Duty-free shops: The airport has several duty-free shops where passengers can buy a variety of products, including perfumes, cosmetics, electronics, and souvenirs. The duty-free shops offer tax-free prices to passengers, making it an attractive shopping destination.
4. ATMs and currency exchange: The airport has several ATMs and currency exchange counters, making it easy for passengers to withdraw money or exchange currency.
5. Wi-Fi: Indira Gandhi International Airport offers free Wi-Fi to passengers, allowing them to stay connected with their friends and family or work while waiting for their flight.

Services at Indira Gandhi International Airport:

Indira Gandhi International Airport offers a range of services to passengers, including:

1. Airport lounges: The airport has several lounges that offer comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments to passengers. The lounges are available for both domestic and international passengers, and some of them are operated by airlines and others by independent operators.
2. Baggage services: The airport has baggage storage and wrapping services, making it easy for passengers to store their luggage or wrap it for added protection.
3. Medical services: The airport has a medical center that offers first aid and emergency medical services to passengers. The center is staffed by qualified doctors and nurses and is available 24/7.
4. Transport services: The airport has several transport options available, including taxis, buses, and metro trains. The metro train is the most convenient and affordable option, as it connects the airport to several parts of Delhi.
5. Assistance for disabled passengers: The airport provides assistance to disabled passengers, including wheelchairs and special assistance during boarding and disembarking.

Terminal Information

Indira Gandhi International Airport has three terminals, with Terminal 3 being the largest and the most modern. The terminals are connected by a shuttle bus service, and passengers can easily move between them.

Terminal 1:

Terminal 1 is divided into two parts: Terminal 1D and Terminal 1C. Terminal 1D is used for domestic flights by low-cost carriers such as IndiGo, SpiceJet, and GoAir. Terminal 1C is used for domestic flights by full-service carriers such as Air India and Vistara.

Terminal 2:

Terminal 2 was opened in 2017 and is used for domestic flights by IndiGo and SpiceJet. The terminal has a capacity of 12 million passengers per year and offers modern facilities and services.

Terminal 3:

Terminal 3 is the largest and the most modern terminal at Indira Gandhi International Airport. It was opened in 2010 and has a capacity of 34 million passengers per year. The terminal is used for both domestic and international flights and offers a wide range of facilities and services to passengers.

Some of the facilities available at Terminal 3 include:

1. Lounges: The terminal has several lounges that offer comfortable seating, free Wi-Fi, and refreshments to passengers. The lounges are available for both domestic and international passengers, and some of them are operated by airlines and others by independent operators.
2. Restaurants: There are several restaurants and cafes at Terminal 3, offering a range of cuisines and dining options. From fast food to fine dining, the terminal has something for everyone.
3. Duty-free shops: The terminal has several duty-free shops where passengers can buy a variety of products, including perfumes, cosmetics, electronics, and souvenirs. The duty-free shops offer tax-free prices to passengers, making it an attractive shopping destination.
4. ATMs and currency exchange: The terminal has several ATMs and currency exchange counters, making it easy for passengers to withdraw money or exchange currency.
5. Wi-Fi: Terminal 3 offers free Wi-Fi to passengers, allowing them to stay connected with their friends and family or work while waiting for their flight.
6. Baggage services: The terminal has baggage storage and wrapping services, making it easy for passengers to store their luggage or wrap it for added protection.
7. Medical services: The terminal has a medical center that offers first aid and emergency medical services to passengers. The center is staffed by qualified doctors and nurses and is available 24/7.
8. Transport services: The terminal has several transport options available, including taxis, buses, and metro trains. The metro train is the most convenient and affordable option, as it connects the terminal to several parts of Delhi.

Overall, Indira Gandhi International Airport’s terminals offer modern facilities and efficient services to passengers, making it one of the best airports in India.

Airlines Operating at Indira Gandhi International Airport

Indira Gandhi International Airport is one of the busiest airports in India and serves as a hub for several airlines. There are over 70 airlines operating at the airport, including domestic and international carriers. Some of the major airlines operating at Indira Gandhi International Airport are:

1. Air India: Air India is the national carrier of India and operates both domestic and international flights from Terminal 3 at Indira Gandhi International Airport. The airline has a wide network of destinations and offers comfortable services to passengers.
2. IndiGo: IndiGo is one of the largest low-cost airlines in India and operates from Terminal 1D and Terminal 2 at Indira Gandhi International Airport. The airline offers affordable fares and has a strong domestic network, connecting several cities in India.
3. SpiceJet: SpiceJet is another low-cost airline in India and operates from Terminal 1D and Terminal 2 at Indira Gandhi International Airport. The airline offers affordable fares and has a strong presence in the Indian domestic market.
4. Vistara: Vistara is a full-service airline and operates from Terminal 3 at Indira Gandhi International Airport. The airline offers premium services to passengers and has a growing network of destinations both within India and internationally.
5. Emirates: Emirates is a popular international airline and operates from Terminal 3 at Indira Gandhi International Airport. The airline offers flights to several destinations in the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and Asia, and has a reputation for quality services.
6. Qatar Airways: Qatar Airways is another popular international airline and operates from Terminal 3 at Indira Gandhi International Airport. The airline offers flights to several destinations in the Middle East, Europe, Africa, and Asia, and has won several awards for its services.
7. British Airways: British Airways is a well-known international airline and operates from Terminal 3 at Indira Gandhi International Airport. The airline offers flights to several destinations in Europe and has a reputation for quality services.
8. Singapore Airlines: Singapore Airlines is a popular international airline and operates from Terminal 3 at Indira Gandhi International Airport. The airline offers flights to several destinations in Asia, Europe, and the United States, and has won several awards for its services.

Apart from these major airlines, several other domestic and international airlines also operate at Indira Gandhi International Airport, connecting passengers to various destinations across the world. The airport’s convenient location and modern facilities make it an attractive destination for airlines and passengers alike.

Transportation to and from the Airport

Indira Gandhi International Airport, located in New Delhi, is well-connected to the city and the surrounding areas by several modes of transportation. Passengers can choose from various options depending on their budget and convenience. Here are some of the transportation options available to and from the airport:

1. Metro: The Delhi Metro’s Airport Express Line is the most convenient and affordable way to reach the airport. The line connects the airport to several parts of Delhi, including Connaught Place, New Delhi Railway Station, and Dwarka. The metro runs every 10-15 minutes from early morning until late at night.
2. Taxi: Taxis are readily available outside the airport terminals, and passengers can book them through pre-paid taxi counters or through ride-hailing apps like Uber and Ola. The fare varies depending on the distance and the type of vehicle, but it usually costs between INR 300-500 to reach central Delhi.
3. Bus: The Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) operates several buses to and from the airport, connecting it to various parts of Delhi and neighboring cities like Gurgaon and Noida. The fare varies depending on the distance and the type of bus, but it usually costs between INR 25-150.
4. Car Rental: Passengers can also rent a car from several car rental companies located at the airport. The rates vary depending on the type of car and the duration of the rental.
5. Auto-Rickshaws: Auto-rickshaws are also available outside the airport terminals, but passengers should negotiate the fare beforehand as they do not have a meter. Auto-rickshaws are a budget-friendly option but may not be the most comfortable, especially with luggage.

Passengers should note that traffic congestion in Delhi can be quite heavy, especially during peak hours. It is advisable to plan ahead and allocate enough time for transportation to and from the airport. The Delhi Metro’s Airport Express Line is the most time-efficient option, but passengers can also choose from the other options based on their preferences and budget.

Parking Options

Indira Gandhi International Airport offers various parking options for passengers, depending on their needs and budget. The parking options include both short-term and long-term parking facilities. Here are the parking options available at the airport:

1. Multi-Level Car Park (MLCP): The MLCP is the most convenient and secure parking option at the airport, with a capacity of over 7,000 vehicles. It is located opposite Terminal 3 and connected to the terminal by a covered walkway. The parking rates vary depending on the duration of parking and the type of vehicle. The MLCP offers both hourly and daily rates.
2. General Parking: The General Parking facility is located near Terminal 1D and Terminal 2, and it is the most affordable parking option at the airport. The parking rates vary depending on the duration of parking and the type of vehicle. The General Parking facility offers both hourly and daily rates.
3. Premium Parking: The Premium Parking facility is located near Terminal 3 and offers a more convenient parking option for passengers who want to park closer to the terminal. The parking rates for Premium Parking are higher than General Parking, and it offers both hourly and daily rates.
4. Valet Parking: The Valet Parking service is available at Terminal 3 and offers the most convenient parking option for passengers who are in a hurry or do not want to park their own vehicles. The Valet Parking service is available for both short-term and long-term parking and offers hourly and daily rates.

Passengers can pay for parking at the airport through various payment options, including cash, credit card, and debit card. The airport also offers online booking for parking, which can be done through its website or mobile app. Passengers are advised to plan their parking in advance to ensure availability and to avoid any last-minute hassles.

Airport Hotels

Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi offers several options for passengers who need to stay overnight or for a few hours before or after their flight. Here are some of the airport hotels available at the airport:

1. Holiday Inn New Delhi International Airport: This hotel is located just 5 minutes away from the airport terminals and offers a comfortable stay for passengers. The hotel features a 24-hour fitness center, outdoor pool, spa, and several dining options. It also offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport.
2. JW Marriott Hotel New Delhi Aerocity: This luxury hotel is located near the airport and offers a comfortable and convenient stay for passengers. The hotel features several dining options, a 24-hour fitness center, a spa, and an outdoor pool. It also offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport.
3. Pullman New Delhi Aerocity: This hotel is located near the airport and offers a luxurious and comfortable stay for passengers. The hotel features several dining options, a 24-hour fitness center, a spa, and a rooftop pool. It also offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport.
4. ibis New Delhi Aerocity: This budget-friendly hotel is located near the airport and offers a comfortable stay for passengers on a budget. The hotel features a 24-hour fitness center, several dining options, and a bar. It also offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport.
5. Airport Hotel Delhi Aerocity: This hotel is located just a few minutes away from the airport terminals and offers a comfortable and affordable stay for passengers. The hotel features several dining options, a 24-hour front desk, and room service. It also offers a complimentary shuttle service to and from the airport.

These airport hotels offer a range of amenities and services to ensure a comfortable and convenient stay for passengers. Passengers can book these hotels through the hotel’s website or through online travel agencies. Some of these hotels also offer day-use rooms for passengers who need to freshen up or rest for a few hours during a layover.

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Frequently Asked Questions

Here are some frequently asked questions about Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi:

How far is Indira Gandhi International Airport from the city center?

The airport is located about 16 kilometers (10 miles) south of the city center.

How do I get to the airport from the city center?

Passengers can get to the airport by taxi, private car, metro, or bus. The airport is well-connected by road and has several transportation options available.

How early should I arrive at the airport before my flight?

Passengers are advised to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before their flight departure time, especially for international flights.

Can I store my luggage at the airport?

Yes, the airport has baggage storage facilities available for passengers. The baggage storage facilities are located at Terminal 3 and offer both short-term and long-term storage options.

Does the airport have Wi-Fi?

Yes, the airport offers free Wi-Fi for passengers throughout the terminals.

Are there any lounges available at the airport?

Yes, the airport has several lounges available for passengers, including airline lounges and independent lounges. These lounges offer a range of amenities, including comfortable seating, food and beverage options, and showers.

Can I exchange currency at the airport?

Yes, the airport has several currency exchange counters available for passengers.

Are there any duty-free shops available at the airport?

Yes, the airport has several duty-free shops available for passengers, offering a range of products including alcohol, tobacco, cosmetics, and electronics.

Is there any medical assistance available at the airport?

Yes, the airport has a medical center available for passengers. The medical center is located at Terminal 1D and is staffed by trained medical professionals.

Can I book a hotel at the airport?

Yes, the airport has several hotels available for passengers who need to stay overnight or for a few hours before or after their flight. These hotels offer a range of amenities and services to ensure a comfortable stay for passengers.