Air India Moves 60 Domestic Flights to Delhi Airport Terminal 2 from Oct 26

Air India passengers flying out of Delhi later this month should double-check their terminal details before heading to the airport. Starting October 26, 2025, the airline will shift 60 of its domestic operations from Terminal 3 to the newly upgraded Terminal 2, as part of Delhi Airport’s ongoing efforts to balance traffic across its terminals.

Which Flights Are Moving to Terminal 2

Out of Air India’s 180 daily domestic flights from Delhi, 60 will now operate from the upgraded Terminal 2. These are easy to identify: flights numbered in four digits starting with a “1” (for example, AI1737 or AI1787) will be handled at Terminal 2.

If your flight is operated by Air India Express, it will continue to depart from Terminal 1. Those flights carry four-digit numbers beginning with “9” (like AI9501 or AI9550).

The simple rule:

• Flight numbers starting with “1” = Terminal 2.
• Flight numbers starting with “9” (Air India Express) = Terminal 1.
• All other Air India domestic services = Remain at Terminal 3.

How Passengers Will Be Notified

Air India has said that passengers booked on flights shifting to Terminal 2 will be contacted directly using the details provided at booking. No action is required on the traveller’s part, but it’s wise to reconfirm your departure terminal before heading to the airport, especially if you have connections.

Connecting between terminals at Delhi Airport

Switching terminals in Delhi isn’t as complicated as it sounds, but it helps to know your options. The airport has a few ways to make transfers smoother:

• Shuttle service: Free buses run every 10 minutes between Terminals 1, 2 and 3.
• Buggy option: Available on request for passengers with reduced mobility, mainly between Terminals 2 and 3.
• Walking: Terminals 2 and 3 are close enough to walk in about 10–15 minutes.
• Baggage transfers:
  • If you’re through-checked, bags move automatically between terminals.
  • If not, you’ll need to collect your baggage and check it in again.

What to Expect for Specific Connections

International arrivals at Terminal 3 → Domestic departures at Terminal 2

• Collect your baggage at T3 and clear customs.
• Re-drop your bags either at the transfer desk or the Air India check-in counter in T2.

Domestic arrivals at Terminal 2 → International departures at Terminal 3

• Through check-in: Walk straight to T3; your baggage will be transferred automatically.
• No through check-in: Pick up your bags at T2, then head to T3 and recheck them.

Domestic-to-Domestic transfers between Terminals 2 and 3

• No customs required.
• Follow baggage rules depending on whether you’re through checked or not.

Connecting to Air India Express flights (Terminal 1)

• These flights operate from T1.
• Use the airport shuttle, as T1 is much farther from T2 and T3.

Why This Matters for Travellers

Terminal changes at Delhi can catch even frequent fliers off guard, particularly those with tight connections. While Air India’s proactive notifications will help, seasoned travellers know the safest bet is to check terminal details again a day before departure.

With shuttle services running regularly and baggage handled airside for most connections, the shift should be manageable, provided you give yourself enough time.