Starting October 26, 2025, both IndiGo and Air India will shuffle their flight operations across Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) to streamline traffic and ease congestion. For frequent flyers, this means checking your terminal twice before you head out.
IndiGo to Operate from All Three Terminals
IndiGo is set to spread its operations across Terminals 1, 2, and 3. Here’s how flights will be divided:
- Terminal 3: Flight numbers 6E 5000 to 6E 5999, including all international departures and arrivals
- Terminal 2: Flight numbers 6E 2000 to 6E 2999
- Terminal 1: All other domestic flights
This reshuffle marks IndiGo’s return to Terminal 2 after a temporary pause and is aimed at balancing passenger load among the three terminals. The airline says the move will help improve turnaround times and reduce airport congestion, especially during peak hours.
Air India to Shift 60 Flights from T3 to T2
Air India is also joining the operational shuffle. From October 26, around 60 domestic flights will move from Terminal 3 to the newly upgraded Terminal 2. Here’s how it breaks down:
- Flights starting with “1” (e.g., AI1737, AI1787) → Now operate from Terminal 2
- Air India Express flights starting with “9” (e.g., AI9501, AI9550) → Continue from Terminal 1
- All other domestic Air India flights → Stay at Terminal 3
It’s a simple rule that can save you a lot of airport confusion: “1” means Terminal 2, “9” means Terminal 1, and everything else stays at Terminal 3.
The airline also advised its passengers to double-check flight numbers and terminal details before departure, particularly those with tight layovers or onward connections.
What Travellers Should Do
If you’re flying with IndiGo or Air India after October 26, here’s what to keep in mind:
- Check your flight number carefully. The terminal depends on it.
- Arrive early. It might take time to adjust to the new layout, especially for connecting flights.
- Follow airport signage. Delhi Airport has begun updating terminal directions to reflect the changes.
- Use airline apps. Both IndiGo and Air India update real-time terminal and gate information.
How to Transfer Between Terminals at Delhi Airport
Switching terminals at Delhi Airport isn’t as tricky as it sounds, but a little planning helps—especially if you’re catching a connection.
- Free Shuttle Service: Buses run every 10 minutes between Terminals 1, 2, and 3. They’re reliable and easy to find outside the arrival areas.
- Buggy Service: Available on request for passengers with reduced mobility, mainly between Terminals 2 and 3.
- Walking Option: Terminals 2 and 3 are close enough to walk—expect about 10–15 minutes depending on your pace.
- Baggage Transfers:
- If your bags are through-checked, they’ll be automatically moved between terminals.
- If not, you’ll need to collect and recheck them before your next flight.
In short, Delhi Airport’s terminal shuffle might look complex on paper, but with clear numbering and regular shuttles, it’s manageable once you know the system.
Why the Change Matters
Delhi Airport handles more than 180 million passengers a year, and distributing flights more evenly across terminals is a strategic move. It’s meant to reduce crowding, improve baggage handling, and shorten taxi times on the ground. For passengers, it could mean shorter queues, smoother transfers, and fewer last-minute gate changes.
Final Thoughts
The terminal shuffle is a logistical step to prepare Delhi Airport for growing passenger volumes and future expansion. While it might create some confusion in the first few weeks, it’s a move toward smoother operations in the long run.
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