After nearly five months of renovation work, Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) Terminal 2 is ready to reopen on October 26, airport authorities confirmed on Friday. The terminal, which was originally built by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) about 40 years ago, was shut in April this year to make way for a complete upgrade aimed at improving passenger experience and easing traffic congestion.
The Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) noted the modernisation was carried out in partnership with the GMR Group, keeping in mind the growing volume of domestic air travel. With the reopening, around 120 flights operated by Air India and IndiGo will shift to Terminal 2 as part of the winter flight schedule.
India’s first self-baggage drop
Among the major changes, the renovated Terminal 2 will feature India’s first Self Baggage Drop (SBD) system, allowing passengers to scan boarding passes, tag their luggage, and check in their bags without waiting in long queues. “This is designed to cut waiting time and smoothen the boarding process, especially during peak flight hours,” a DIAL official told The Indian Express.
The terminal also introduces six new Passenger Boarding Bridges (PBBs), equipped with autonomous docking technology sourced from South Korea. These bridges come with wheelchair ramps, side safety cushions, and swing doors for operator safety. These features are expected to make boarding faster and safer.
In addition, a newly installed high-resolution Flight Information Display System (FIDS) will provide real-time updates on arrivals and departures. The upgraded terminal includes improved air-conditioning, fire safety systems and electrical capacity for uninterrupted operations. DIAL officials said the revamped interiors, modern ceilings, skylights, and new flooring were designed to make the space “brighter and more inviting” for travellers.
Metro connectivity remains key
For those taking public transport, the IGI Airport Metro Station on the Airport Express Line remains the nearest link to Terminal 2. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has set up clear signage and access routes from the terminal to the metro station to make transfers quicker. The Airport Express Line connects the airport to central Delhi in under 20 minutes.
“Passenger convenience and safety have been the core of this renovation,” a DIAL spokesperson said. “Terminal 2 will now be better equipped to handle the rise in festive and winter traffic while providing a seamless travel experience.”
With this reopening, Terminal 2 is expected to ease the load on Terminals 1 and 3, while giving travellers a modern and efficient space that blends technology with comfort, which is a move that airport authorities hope will mark a new phase in Delhi’s aviation infrastructure.
