Passengers traveling through Indira Gandhi International Airport in Delhi may soon face less hassle when changing flights. Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) has officially approached aviation authorities to start a direct airside transfer service between Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. This means connecting passengers will no longer need to exit the airport building and go through security checks again to move between these terminals.
Timeline for the new bus service
The airport operator is aiming to launch this service by March 2026. DIAL has sought necessary approvals from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) and the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA). The two terminals are located about 8 km apart, and currently, passengers have to use landside shuttle buses or the Metro to transfer, which takes more time and effort.
Alongside this, significant changes are happening at Terminal 3. Pier C is being converted into an exclusive international wing. This transition is also expected to be completed by next month to handle the growing number of international flights effectively.
Safety rules and baggage handling
Since the transfer buses will drive inside the operational area where aircraft also move, strict safety rules are being put in place. The route will cross active taxiways, so DGCA clearance is mandatory to ensure passenger safety.
- Security: Passengers will remain in a secure ‘sterile’ area throughout the transfer.
- Eligibility: You must have a valid boarding pass for a same-day connecting flight to use this service.
- Baggage: A new system is being tested to transfer luggage directly between terminals, so you might not need to collect bags and drop them again.
- Cost: While current landside shuttles are free with a coupon, pricing for this premium airside service is not yet announced.
