New IGI expansion project to complete by 2022
NEW DELHI: In 2017, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) announced an ambitious expansion plan for Indira Gandhi International Airport. It was to have new taxiways, a fourth runway, an elevated cross taxiway and an expanded Terminal 1.
The work is already in progress in 2019. DIAL claims that the expansion project will finish by June 2022.
The plan focuses heavily on improving Terminal 1. Additionally, Terminal 1C and 1D will be integrated into one big terminal handling only domestic flights. This will increase the number of passengers from 2 crore per year to 4 crore. Terminal 3 will then only cater to international flights.
DIAL says they started work a few months ago. So far, the arrival hall and the utility building of T1 are complete.
IP Rao, deputy managing director, GMR group, said, “Keeping in view the unprecedented growth in the number of people travelling by air over the last few years, expansion of Delhi airport has become the need of the hour to make it future ready with enhanced passenger experience. The mega expansion will not only help existing airlines to enhance their services but also create adequate room for new airlines to initiate their services.”
He added, “Our vision is being at the forefront of creating world-class facilities and value-added amenities for our customers. We want to make it one of the best airports across the world. As we rigorously build for the next three years, our focus on efficient operations and superior customer service would remain unwavering.”
Larsen and Toubro will handle construction for the expansion project.
After the work gets over, IGI airport will be the country’s first airport to have four runways and dual elevated eastern cross taxiways. Going by the plan, the entire T1 apron will be demolished and a new expanded apron with 82 stands (against 55 now) built. It would also have latest upgrades like visual docking guidance system. fuel hydrant system, ground power units and preconditioned air.