With an aim to ensure a pleasant and seamless journey for domestic passengers, Delhi Airport recently upgraded Terminal 1. Our Honourable Prime Minister, Shri Narendra Modi, on 10th March, dedicated the expanded world-class integrated T1 to the nation. With this, he revealed the future of air travel as Delhi Airport (DEL), under the supervision of GMR-led DIAL, prepares to operationalise the revamped Terminal 1. The integrated T1 is expected to greatly enhance the passenger experience.
Here is all you need to know about the recently revamped T1.
With a capacity to serve a whopping 40 million passengers per annum (MPPA) - doubling its previous capability - Delhi Airport now stands among elite global hubs, boasting a 100 MPPA capacity.
The integration of Arrival and Departure terminals is not just architectural; it is a transformative journey, resonating with India's ambition and connecting the nation to the world.
GMR Airports Infrastructure Ltd (GIL)-led DIAL undertook the expansion work in 2019 to make Delhi Airport future-ready. The expansion work was carried out as per the Master Plan 2016, as Delhi Airport witnessed a massive surge in the Air Traffic Movements (ATMs) and passenger numbers, exceeding projections.
Marking the conclusion of the Phase 3A Expansion project, the expanded terminal signifies a monumental leap in Indian aviation.
Speaking on the occasion, Mr I Prabhakara Rao, Group Deputy Managing Director, GMR Group, said,
“Terminal 1 enhances capacity and redefines the passenger experience while embracing sustainability. The expanded integrated terminal, a marvel of innovation and aesthetics, will serve 40 million passengers annually, double its previous capacity. Through this project, we have reimagined a seamless journey facilitated by facial recognition, self-service kiosks, and automated baggage systems. Spacious concourses bathed in natural light, offering a haven of comfort with prayer rooms, yoga areas, and quiet zones are its integral part. This project is about India's aspirations and positions the National Capital as a Gateway to New India.”
DEL's Terminal 1 is not simply an expansion; it embodies a fusion of elegance, innovation, and a steadfast commitment to enhancing passenger experiences. The consolidation of Arrival and Departure terminals into a cohesive structure significantly increases the overall area, soaring from 55,740 sqm to an impressive 206,950 sqm. This expansion is more than three times the previous area and augments the capacity from 17 MPPA to 40 MPPA, which is more than double the previous capacity.
Passenger facilities are at the forefront, utilising advanced technologies such as Facial Recognition System (DIGIYATRA) at all entry gates, 20 Automated Tray Retrieval System (ATRS), Individual Carrier System (ICS), 108 Common Usage Self Service (CUSS), 100 Check-in Counters, including 36 Self Baggage Drop (SBD) kiosks among others. The seamless journey is complemented by a myriad of offerings, including expanded baggage reclaim carousels, multiple entry gates, and enhanced Shop and Dine facilities.
To enhance the experience of Passengers with Reduced Mobility (PRM), DIAL has created special zones for PRMs on the Kerbside, which include a Lounge facility, phones, Sunflower Service, etc. DIAL has also established special zones and elevated seating arrangements for PRMs inside the terminal.
The integrated terminal boasts several passenger-friendly facilities using advanced technologies such as Facial Recognition System (DIGIYATRA) at all entry gates, 20 Automated Tray Retrieval System (ATRS), Individual Carrier System (ICS), 108 Common Usage Self Service (CUSS), 100 check-in counters, including 36 Self Baggage Drop (SBD) kiosks among others.
The terminal also has 10 baggage reclaim carousels, each 70 m long, against eight of 52 m each, with ample space between two baggage belts, reducing the wait time of passengers. The capacity of the baggage handling system at T1 has doubled from 3240 baggage per hour to around 6000 per hour. The number of check-in islands has also been increased to five against four earlier. These would help in the easy flow of passengers and enhance passenger experience.
Apart from these, the integrated terminal will have 24 entry points for ease of entry for passengers. Inside the terminal, passengers can experience the Shop and Dine facility, Prayer Room, Yoga Area, Quiet Zone, Lounges, Group Seating, Laptop Charging Stations, Mobile Charging Stations, Self-medication Room, Baby Care Rooms, Smart Washrooms, and much more. The terminal is also well connected with Delhi Metro at Arrivals and Departures.
The Terminal's city-side developments offer an enhanced experience for Meeters and Greeters, with contemporary meet & greet zones, plush forecourt areas, and expanded parking facilities. Realigned pickup and drop-off lanes ease vehicle traffic, significantly improving the passenger experience during arrivals and departures.
Terminal 1 is not merely a symbol of progress but an embodiment of sustainability. As a Green Building, designed in adherence to USGBC LEED Platinum standards, it incorporates innovative features like daylighting concepts i.e. the use of natural light and energy-efficient systems.
The redesigned apron, featuring 82 Code C stands and a dual taxiway, ensures improved air traffic flow, faster aircraft turnaround, and enhanced safety. Technological upgrades like VDGS, FHS, GPU, and PCA contribute to efficiency and safety in aircraft handling.
| TERMINAL 1 | ||
|---|---|---|
| FACILITIES | EARLIER | POST EXPANSION |
| T1 TERMINAL CAPACITY | 17 MPPA | 40 MPPA |
| T1 TOTAL AREA (DEPARTURE + ARRIVAL) | 55,740 SQM | 2,06,950 SQM |
| T1 CHECK-IN ISLANDS | 4 Nos. | 5 Nos. |
| T1 SELF BAGGAGE DROP (SBD) | NIL | 36 |
| T1 COMMON-USER SELF SERVICE MACHINES | 12 Nos. | 108 Nos. |
| T1 BAGGAGE MAKE-UP CAROUSELS | 4 Nos. (AIRLINE-WISE) | 9 Nos. (FLIGHT-WISE, INDIVIDUAL CARRIER SYSTEM) |
| T1 PASSENGER BOARDING BRIDGES | NIL | 22 CONTACT STANDS |
| BAGGAGE HANDLING CAPACITY | 3240 baggage/hour | 6000 baggage/hour |
| T1 BAGGAGE RECLAIM CAROUSELS | 8 Nos. OF 52 Metres EACH | 10 Nos. OF 70 Metres EACH |
| T1 APRON AREA | 2,82,000 SQM | 6,29,285 SQM |
| T1 PARKING STANDS | 55 REMOTE STANDS | 82 STANDS (60 REMOTE (including 8Mars stands), 22 CONTACT |
| DEVELOPMENT ON CITYSIDE/KERBSIDE | ||
| T1 DEPARTURE FORECOURT | 6 (3 + 3) LANES | 9 (3 + 3 + 3) LANES |
| T1 ARRIVAL FORECOURT | 8 (3 + 3 + 2) LANES | 11 (3 + 3 + 3 + 2) LANES |
Delhi Airport's Phase 3A expansion, a monumental endeavour, positioned Terminal 1 (T1) as a symbol of cutting-edge design and engineering. The challenge was to seamlessly integrate a larger, state-of-the-art terminal within the bustling airport, all the while maintaining uninterrupted operations.
The project successfully tripled its area and doubled passenger capacity without inconveniencing the passengers. The terminal was sliced into two parts by erecting a 19-metre-high façade of puff panel. This façade shielded the operating part of T1 from dust, smoke, and rain during the construction work.
The art and design concept focused on blending existing structures with the new, symbolising the evolution of flight. Linear departure gates and an arrival pier along two levels seamlessly integrated the existing and the modern. The aesthetic plan signifies a harmonious coexistence, reflecting India's commitment to innovation in aviation infrastructure. It also boasts of a display of traditional and folk art forms from the remotest parts of India, representing unity in diversity.
Delhi Airport's upgraded Terminal 1 is not just a terminal; it is a commitment to progress, sustainability, and a promise to usher in a new era of travel. Step into the future, where design, technology, and sustainability meet to create an unparalleled travel experience. T1 is more than a gateway; it is the #GatewayToNewIndia, where every detail reflects a dedication to excellence and a vision for the future of air travel.
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