Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) is set to increase its international handling capacity with Pier C at Terminal 3 (T3) scheduled to begin international operations in the first week of May.
Current Capacity and Expansion
Terminal 3 (T3) is currently the only terminal handling international flights, with a capacity of around 20 million passengers per year. After expansion, its capacity is expected to rise to approximately 30–32 million passengers annually, representing an increase of about 10–12 million passengers or nearly 50% growth. This additional capacity is broadly in line with DIAL’s estimate of around 10 million extra international passengers per year.
Terminal 3 Operational Restructuring
In parallel, T3 is undergoing operational restructuring across its four piers: A, B, C, and D. Piers A and B currently handle international operations, while Piers C and D are used for domestic flights. As part of the restructuring, Pier C is being converted for international operations. This shift is expected to transfer a significant portion of domestic handling to other infrastructure, thereby freeing up additional capacity to support growing international traffic.
Airside and Gate Capacity Improvements
The Pier C upgrade also includes significant airside infrastructure enhancements aimed at improving operational efficiency and aircraft handling capacity.
- The upgrade adds 16 Code C aircraft stands with gates.
- Faster aircraft turnaround is expected due to improved operational flow.
- Gate allocation efficiency is being enhanced across the terminal.
- Wide-body aircraft stands for international operations have increased by approximately 40%.
Passenger Processing Enhancements
Several upgrades are being implemented to improve passenger flow and processing efficiency.
- 12 new self-baggage drop counters have been added, increasing the total to 26.
- 16 boarding gates have been converted for international use.
- 40 additional immigration counters have been added in arrivals.
With a combined capacity of around 106 million passengers annually across T1, T2, and T3, Delhi airport reflects the sheer scale of one of the country’s busiest aviation gateways.
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