Delhi Airport’s Terminal 2 Closure Sparks New Travel Chaos: How the Major Shutdown Affects Global Travelers and What You Need to Know About the Disruptions at India’s Largest Airport

Published on April 14, 2025

Starting April 15, 2025, travelers flying through Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport will encounter a significant change. Terminal 2 (T2) will close temporarily for extensive maintenance and upgrades, a move that will affect both domestic and international passengers. This renovation is part of the airport’s broader initiative to modernize its infrastructure, improving overall passenger experience. During this period, all domestic flights that previously operated from T2 will now be moved to Terminal 1 (T1) for the next 4 to 6 months, according to airport authorities.

This change is likely to affect travelers planning to fly to or from Delhi, especially those with domestic connections. As part of the modernization, Terminal 2 will undergo key upgrades to align it with the modern amenities and technology of Terminal 1 and Terminal 3 (T3). With this major shift, travelers should stay informed about their updated flight schedules, terminal changes, and potential disruptions to ensure a smooth travel experience.

Impact on Domestic and International Travelers

For those traveling to or from Delhi, the closure of Terminal 2 means adjustments across various airlines and routes. Domestic flights that were originally scheduled to depart or arrive at T2 will now operate from Terminal 1, requiring passengers to adjust their plans accordingly. This change might result in minor schedule adjustments or delays, particularly for those with connections or those unfamiliar with the new terminal assignments.

Airport authorities and airlines have already started informing passengers about these terminal changes, urging travelers to check updated flight schedules and terminal information regularly. For passengers flying with Indian domestic airlines such as IndiGo, Air India, and Akasa Air, the shift to Terminal 1 will require extra time for check-in, security checks, and potentially additional terminal transfers. The need for early arrivals and updated contact information is emphasized to ensure travelers receive timely notifications about their flights.

While the change will primarily affect domestic travelers, international passengers transiting through Delhi may also be impacted. For travelers flying from the UAE, including those on flights with major carriers like Emirates, Etihad Airways, Flydubai, and Air Arabia, the closure of Terminal 2 won’t directly affect their international flights, as they continue to operate out of Terminal 3 (T3). However, passengers on connecting flights with Indian domestic carriers, including codeshare routes, should be mindful of additional terminal transfers, which may require more time.

What Travelers Should Do: Ensuring a Smooth Experience Amid Terminal Changes

With the closure of Terminal 2, travelers must remain proactive to avoid unnecessary confusion and delays. Here are a few steps they can take to navigate the changes:

• Check your terminal: If your flight was booked to depart from Terminal 2 after April 15, verify the updated terminal information with your airline before heading to the airport.
• Monitor flight status: Due to the terminal changes, travelers should regularly check for schedule modifications or delays. Using the Delhi Airport portal or official airline websites will help you stay informed.
• Update contact details: Ensure that your contact details are current with your airline. This way, you can receive notifications about any potential changes or delays.
• Arrive early: With longer queues likely and the possibility of terminal transfers, travelers are advised to allow extra time for check-in and security, particularly if they have connecting flights.

The Reason Behind the Terminal 2 Closure: Infrastructure and Modernization Efforts

The closure of Terminal 2 is part of Delhi’s ambitious plan to upgrade and modernize its airport infrastructure. Terminal 2, built in 1986, is undergoing a major facelift to bring it up to the standards of the more modern Terminal 1 and Terminal 3. The renovation work will introduce self-service kiosks, advanced baggage handling systems, and improved passenger amenities, all aimed at enhancing the traveler experience.

Once the upgrades are complete, Terminal 2 is expected to be a more efficient and capable facility, potentially supporting international expansions or additional domestic operations. The airport operator, GMR Group, is undertaking this major project as part of a multi-phase modernization effort, which also includes the expansion of Terminal 1, the development of a fourth runway, and the introduction of India’s first elevated cross-taxiway. These upgrades aim to position Delhi Airport as a more competitive and passenger-friendly hub for both international and domestic flights.

The Impact on International Travelers and Airlines

International passengers flying into Delhi, especially those traveling from the UAE, are unlikely to be directly impacted by the closure of Terminal 2, as their flights will continue to operate out of Terminal 3 (T3). This terminal remains fully operational and continues to handle both international and domestic flights. The terminal features a modern, five-level structure equipped with state-of-the-art amenities for arrivals and departures.

However, for those traveling on codeshare flights involving Indian domestic carriers, passengers should be aware of the potential need for additional terminal transfers between T3 and T1. Major UAE carriers like Emirates, Etihad Airways, Flydubai, and Air Arabia, which operate from Terminal 3, have not been directly affected by this closure. Still, travelers on connecting flights through Delhi may experience longer transfer times between terminals, particularly if they need to move from T1 to T3 or vice versa.

For airlines, particularly those operating both domestic and international flights, the closure of Terminal 2 requires careful coordination. Indian airlines like IndiGo, Air India, and Akasa Air, which previously operated from T2, now must handle all domestic traffic through T1. IndiGo, the airline most significantly impacted, has already advised passengers to check their flight details for any changes to terminal assignments.

How This Affects Global Travelers

The closure of Terminal 2 at Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, while primarily affecting domestic operations, also underscores the growing demand for modern airport facilities in rapidly developing regions. As more travelers from around the world transit through Delhi, the need for efficient, seamless connections becomes even more critical. The infrastructure upgrades planned for Delhi Airport aim to create a smoother travel experience for both international and domestic passengers, and it is likely that the closure of Terminal 2, while inconvenient, will ultimately result in a more streamlined airport in the long term.

For global travelers, this development may encourage them to plan accordingly, especially when traveling on connecting flights through Delhi. Those with tight layovers or multiple connections should account for possible delays due to the terminal changes and ensure they allow extra time for any required transfers.

Travelers also need to be mindful of the growing importance of infrastructure in global airports. As major international hubs like Delhi continue to expand and modernize, it will be crucial for travelers to stay informed about any operational changes or upgrades that could affect their travel experience. Keeping up-to-date with terminal assignments, flight statuses, and airline communications will be key to avoiding unnecessary disruptions.

Preparing for Delhi Airport’s Transformation

As Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport closes Terminal 2 for renovations starting April 15, 2025, travelers must stay proactive to navigate the temporary changes. With the airport’s continued investment in infrastructure, these upgrades are expected to improve the overall experience for passengers in the long run. While the immediate impact on travelers may include changes to flight schedules, terminal assignments, and longer transfer times, the move reflects a broader trend in the global aviation industry toward modernization and improved passenger services.

For travelers, especially those with connecting flights through Delhi, staying informed about the latest updates and allowing extra time for airport procedures will be essential to ensuring a smooth journey. As Delhi continues to expand its capabilities, the ongoing renovations at Terminal 2 will contribute to a more efficient, modern airport, paving the way for a better travel experience in the future.