Delhi Airport is set to revolutionize terminal transfers with the introduction of India’s first-ever air train, a project that promises to significantly enhance passenger convenience and experience. This automated people mover (APM), also known as the air train, is scheduled to be operational by the end of 2027, making travel between Terminal 3 (T3) and Terminal 1 (T1) a breeze.
Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), the airport’s operator, has already issued a tender for this highly anticipated project. The air train will cover a 7.7 km route with four stops: T2/3, T1, Aerocity, and Cargo City. This will eliminate the need for Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses for terminal transfers, streamlining passenger movement.
DIAL, backed by GMR, is expected to start accepting bids for the project by the end of 2024. The winning bidder will need to propose a cost-effective solution, likely through revenue-sharing models or viability gap funding, with the contract awarded by the end of the fiscal year. Construction is projected to finish by 2027, with the timeline communicated to the Union Aviation Ministry to ensure its timely completion.
This ambitious project, built using the design, build, finance, operate, and transfer (DBFOT) model, aims to offer hassle-free, reliable connectivity between terminals, significantly enhancing passenger comfort and operational efficiency. The air train will not only improve travel convenience but will also contribute to reducing the airport’s carbon footprint and boosting its Airport Service Quality (ASQ) score.
Government discussions have confirmed that no development fees will be charged to passengers before the project’s completion. While the final cost remains undetermined, estimates suggest it could be around ₹2,000 crore. The initial proposal of six stops has been reduced to four, aiming to minimize travel time and security requirements at non-terminal stations.
With Delhi Airport currently handling over 70 million passengers annually, a figure expected to exceed 130 million in the next 6-8 years, the air train becomes crucial for smooth terminal transfers, especially for the large percentage of transit travelers.
Following global standards, it is likely that the air train will be free for passengers, with costs recovered through aeronautical charges and User Development Fees (UDF), similar to practices at other major airports like Mumbai. This ambitious project promises to solidify Delhi Airport’s position as a leading international hub, offering a seamless and efficient travel experience for millions of passengers every year.
