Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport is set to introduce India’s first air train system, designed to enhance connectivity between terminals, parking lots, and various facilities. This Automated People Mover (APM) aims to reduce travel time across the airport and improve convenience for passengers.
The proposed air train will connect Terminals 1, 2, and 3, as well as Aerocity and Cargo City, spanning approximately 7.7 km with four stations. This new system will replace the current DTC bus service used for airport travel.
Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) has released a tender for the construction of the air train. While the total project cost hasn’t been specified, estimates suggest it will be around ₹2,000 crore.
Bidding for the project is anticipated to take place in October and November, with contracts awarded based on factors such as cost, revenue-share models, and viability gap funding. The air train system is projected to become operational by the end of 2027.
DIAL plans to implement an elevated and at-grade APM system at the airport using a design, build, finance, operate, and transfer (DBFOT) model. The APM will provide fast, reliable, and seamless connectivity between Terminals 1 and 3/2, traversing through Aerocity and Cargo City. The initiative aims to enhance passenger convenience, improve the airport’s ASQ score, and reduce its carbon footprint.
Indira Gandhi International Airport is one of India’s busiest airports, handling over 70 million passengers annually. With passenger numbers expected to double in the next six to seven years, the air train system is essential for ensuring efficient connectivity.
