Converging World via Expanding Infrastructure
Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) : Delhi's Gateway to the World
Palam Airport in Delhi, now known as Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA), stands as a testament to India’s evolving aviation industry. Managed by Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), it is not just a hub for passengers and cargo but also an iconic landmark showcasing India's history, growth, and global connectivity.
Historical Evolution of IGIA
Palam airport was commissioned in the era of World War II to serve as an Indian Air Force Station. Its strategic importance grew over the decades. Passenger airport for Delhi was initially Safdarjung Airport. However, due to increase in passenger traffic at Safdarjung airport, passenger operations were shifted to Palam Airport. A new passenger terminal later known as Terminal 2 was built in 1986 on southern side of the runway. Terminal 2 was used primarily as international terminal. Privatization of airports started post year 2000. In this series Delhi Airport was transitioned into Private Public consortium in 2006. Post transition, a southern runway was added to the airport with orientation of 290/110 along with commissioning of Terminal 3. Terminal 3 was iconic terminal for India as it was the 1st integrated terminal in India to have amenities of global standards. T3 handles operations for international and select domestic flights. Palam technical area that northern portion of the airport is under control of Indian Air Force and used for VVIP movements.
Milestones
1947: Played a critical role during the Indo-Pakistani War of 1947.
1962: Passenger operations were shifted from Safdarjung Airport to Palam Airport due to rising air traffic.
1969: A new terminal was built at Palam Airport for ₹9 lakh to accommodate increasing passengers.
1986: Renamed as Indira Gandhi International Airport, Terminal 2 was inaugurated, providing four times the capacity of the old Palam terminal.
2006: The airport management transitioned to a public-private consortium, DIAL, involving GMR Group, Fraport AG, Malaysia Airports, and Airports Authority of India.
2023: The completion of the fourth runway is expected to enhance its capacity, reaffirming its role as a pivotal global aviation hub.
Features and Facilities
Terminals:
Terminal 1: Caters to domestic flights, retaining its legacy as the old Palam terminal.
Terminal 2: A revamped terminal serving diverse operational needs.
Terminal 3: A world-class facility that positions IGIA as India’s largest airport terminal.
Air Force Museum:
A unique attraction showcasing historic photographs, uniforms, memorabilia, and ordnance of the Indian Air Force, along with small aircraft and vehicles in a dedicated hangar.
Strategic Importance
Located 16 km southwest of New Delhi’s city centre, IGIA is a crucial hub for international and domestic connectivity. It is the busiest airport in India by flight traffic and the second busiest in passenger traffic after Mumbai’s Chhatrapati Shivaji International Airport.
Significance for Trade and Travel
IGIA plays a pivotal role in facilitating India's trade and tourism. With world-class infrastructure, it bridges India with key global markets while handling millions of passengers annually. Its modern runways, efficient cargo facilities, and state-of-the-art terminals make it indispensable to India's aviation and economic ecosystem.
Aviation Excellence with Historical Legacy
From its origins as a wartime air force station to becoming South Asia’s largest aviation hub, IGIA represents India's journey of growth and modernization. Its historic relevance, cutting-edge facilities, and continued expansion cement its position as a gateway to India's capital and beyond.
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