Delhi IGI Airport Emerges as a Premier International Transit Hub

Unprecedented Surge in International Transfers

Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) has shattered expectations, recording a staggering 244% increase in international-to-international transfers—from 3.88 lakh in FY 2023 to 13.4 lakh in FY 2025, according to IATA and Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) data.

Robust Overall Transfer Growth

Beyond the transfer spike, IGIA’s total transfer traffic rose by 30.6%, climbing from 15.6 million to 20.3 million passengers between FY 2023 and FY 2025

Driving Forces Behind the Surge

Aggressive Airline Expansion

• IndiGo has launched routes to Almaty, Tashkent, Tbilisi, and Baku, fueling the fivefold increase in international transfers.

• Air India Express plans to introduce daily services between Dehradun–Bengaluru and Ahmedabad–Bengaluru starting September 15, 2025, enhancing international hub connectivity.

• Air India has deployed retrofitted A320neo jets on the Delhi–Bangkok route, offering improved interiors and in‑flight entertainment to elevate passenger experience.
  
  

Strategic Infrastructure Enhancements

• Terminal 1 (Phase 3A) expansion has doubled the space dedicated to international transfers, streamlining passenger flow.

• Terminal 2, currently under renovation, will feature autonomous docking aerobridges to accelerate boarding and improve operational efficiency.

• Runway 28/10 underwent a 90‑day upgrade starting June 15, 2025, to install an advanced Instrument Landing System (ILS), enhancing safety in low-visibility scenarios.

• A government-sponsored Y‑shaped flyover and expanded tunnel under the runway are underway to simplify transfers between Terminals 1, 2, and 3

Strategic Significance for Travel Industry Stakeholders

• Enhanced Global Connectivity
  
  IGIA’s expanding network makes it a compelling option for B2B agents and corporate planners seeking efficient route consolidation.

• Superior Transfer Experience
  
  With expanded terminals and upgraded facilities, IGIA ensures smoother transit for connecting passengers—an essential factor in client satisfaction.

• Airline Partnerships & Opportunities
  
  Airlines operating from Delhi benefit from routes to emerging markets and modern fleets that attract premium travelers.

• Competitive Edge in Asia‑Middle East‑Europe Traffic
  
  IGIA’s east–west corridor positioning and direct links to North America and Europe make it an increasingly viable alternative to traditional hubs

Conclusion & Takeaway for B2B Travel Professionals

Delhi's IGI Airport is not merely keeping pace—it’s strategically ascending as a global transit powerhouse. With a 244% surge in international transfers, capacity upgrades, smart infrastructure, and aggressive route expansion, IGIA offers a future-ready transit experience.

For B2B travel agencies, consolidators, corporate planners, and airline partners, this transformation presents a golden opportunity to:

• Leverage seamless transit for more efficient client routes.

• Harness new markets and in-demand destinations.

• Enhance service superiority by prioritizing airports that invest in passenger connectivity.

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