Delhi Airport Plans 20% Capacity Boost by 2030

GMR Group's Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) is set to significantly expand the passenger handling capacity of Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA). The goal is to raise it by approximately 20%, from the current 10.5 crore passengers per year to 12.5 crore by the fiscal year 2029-30. The immediate expansion involves constructing Pier E at Terminal 3, which is expected to add an annual capacity of 1 to 1.2 crore passengers and help reduce congestion, especially at Terminal 1. Additional aircraft parking bays will also be created at Terminal 3. The plan for replacing the existing Terminal 2, built in 1986, is deferred. Its eventual demolition and reconstruction are planned for a later stage, contingent on traffic growth reaching about 80% of the new capacity (around 10 crore passengers). This decision will also depend on the impact of the new Noida International Airport, scheduled to open this winter. IGIA handled just under 8 crore passengers in 2024-25.

Impact: This expansion is vital for managing growing air traffic demand in India's capital region, potentially improving the passenger experience and supporting the aviation sector's continued growth. It signifies ongoing investment in major Indian infrastructure projects. Impact Rating: 7/10.

Difficult Terms: CPA: Crore Passengers Annually. 'Crore' is an Indian number unit meaning 10 million. So, '10.5 crore' is 105 million. Pier E: An extension of an airport terminal building that leads to departure gates. Traffic: Refers to the volume of passengers and flights at an airport. Terminal: A building or section of a building at an airport where passengers check in, go through security, and board or disembark from aircraft. Aircraft Parking Bays: Designated areas at an airport where planes are parked.