Terminal 2 of Indira Gandhi International Airport in the Capital, which was closed since Monday by the Delhi International Airport (DIAL), is set to undergo a comprehensive redevelopment aimed at modernising the facility. Airport officials told Fe that the terminal will receive a complete infrastructure overhaul to accommodate rising passenger traffic and cater to the evolving expectations of air travellers. The project is expected to be completed in six months, with the terminal reopening shortly thereafter.
The redevelopment plan includes the installation of state-of-the-art passenger boarding bridges (PBB), upgraded mechanical systems, and substantial aesthetic improvements. Six new PBBs, sourced from South Korea, will be introduced, each equipped with cutting-edge features such as autonomous docking technology, elevated ramps for better wheelchair access, swing doors for operator safety, and improved cabin designs for a smoother boarding process. These new bridges will also include side-covering cushions, contributing both to the safety of boarding passengers and the overall visual refinement of the terminal.
To enhance climate control and passenger comfort, advanced heating, ventilation, and air conditioning (HVAC) systems will be installed. These systems are designed to ensure cleaner indoor air and optimal temperature regulation throughout the year. Complementing this upgrade will be an integrated fire safety mechanism, which will add a crucial layer of security across the terminal.
Officials said that visually, Terminal 2 will see a significant transformation. New ceilings with skylight designs will create a brighter, more open atmosphere. The civil upgrades will also include modern flooring, smart washrooms, and enhanced road connectivity to streamline passenger movement in and around the terminal. In response to seasonal weather challenges, especially during the monsoon months, new canopies will be erected at the terminal forecourt to provide sheltered access for travelers.
According to DIAL officials, the modernisation effort extends to digital infrastructure as well. A high-resolution flight information display system (FIDS) will be implemented, offering real-time flight updates with improved visibility and accuracy. Way-finding will also improve with the installation of clearly marked, accessibility-friendly signage throughout the terminal. Special attention is being given to ensure that persons with reduced mobility (PRM) can navigate the facility with ease.
The refurbishment will not be limited to the passenger areas, officials said. The airside and apron zones, are also due for a major revamp. These upgrades will strengthen operational capacity, supporting more frequent aircraft movement and preparing the airport for future increases in traffic volume.
Vidhe Kumar Jaipuriar, CEO of DIAL, has spoken about the importance of the project, calling it “the need of the hour”. He noted that the goal is to not only improve operational efficiency but also elevate the overall travel experience for passengers using Terminal 2. The upgrades are being positioned as a crucial step toward building an airport that is future-ready while meeting current demands.
As domestic travel continues to surge and Delhi Airport holds its place as one of the world’s busiest airports, ranked ninth globally in 2024 with nearly 78 million passengers, the transformation of Terminal 2 marks a critical move in ensuring the airport remains competitive, efficient, and passenger-centric, officials added.