The expansion of T1, designed to accommodate the increased passenger load, was inaugurated last March. However, a canopy collapse during the monsoon resulted in one fatality, leading to a full shutdown. A government-appointed expert panel identified faulty design, substandard construction, and poor maintenance as the causes of the incident. Subsequently, only a section of T1 was reopened for limited flight operations. Now, with all safety clearances in place, the terminal is set to become fully functional.

IndiGo and SpiceJet, the two airlines currently operating from T2, have been informed by Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) that their flights will be relocated to the all-domestic T1. The final transition is pending approval from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS).

T2 will undergo structural enhancements, including strengthening of the apron and overall refurbishment, with an estimated completion timeline of 4.5 months. The terminal is expected to reopen around August-September. Decisions on its future utilization will consider its proximity to Terminal 3 (T3) to enhance domestic-to-international transfer efficiency. Despite discussions, DIAL does not currently plan to revert T2 into an international terminal and intends to maintain its current status for the next three to four years.

Meanwhile, Greater Noida Airport, with a capacity of 10.2 million passengers annually, is expected to commence operations later this summer. IGIA’s T3 and expanded T1 will have a combined capacity of 90.5 million passengers annually. The new airport’s opening may impact footfall at IGIA, which recorded 70.8 million passengers in 2024. However, improved transfer connectivity remains a key concern for airlines operating between terminals.

News source: Money Control