Air India Group has officially announced that it will shift select domestic flights to Terminal 2 (T2) of Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, effective October 26, 2025. This major operational change comes as part of Delhi Airport’s Terminal 3 (T3) expansion project, which temporarily reduces available capacity for domestic flights. Air India Express, the group’s low-cost subsidiary, will move all its domestic operations to Terminal 1 (T1). This restructuring aims to maintain smooth flight operations and minimise congestion during the ongoing infrastructure upgrades, ensuring passengers continue to enjoy efficient travel experiences despite large-scale terminal renovations.
Out of Air India’s 180 daily domestic departures from Delhi, 60 flights will be moved to Terminal 2. These relocated flights will be renumbered with a four-digit format beginning with “1” (for example, AI1737 or AI1787) to help passengers easily identify which flights are operating from the new terminal. This renumbering system is part of Air India’s broader strategy to streamline operations and enhance passenger clarity. The airline has committed to ensuring a seamless transition, supported by digital notifications, signage, and on-ground assistance at both terminals.
Air India Express will now operate all domestic services exclusively from the upgraded Terminal 1. According to the airline, this move is necessary due to space constraints caused by the T3 expansion. By consolidating its domestic network at T1, Air India Express aims to provide greater operational efficiency and faster turnaround times for flights. Despite the relocation, all international flights by both Air India and Air India Express will continue operating from Terminal 3, maintaining consistency for global travellers flying in and out of Delhi.
To assist passengers with connecting flights, Delhi International Airport will continue running a free shuttle service every 10 minutes between T1, T2, and T3. Additionally, buggy rides will be available between T2 and T3 for passengers with reduced mobility. Air India has confirmed that all through-checked baggage will be automatically transferred airside between terminals, meaning travellers will not need to collect and recheck their luggage. This initiative ensures a smooth and stress-free experience for passengers navigating inter-terminal connections within Delhi Airport.
To minimise disruption, Air India and Air India Express will notify all passengers affected by the relocation via registered contact details. For new bookings, customers will receive clear terminal information during the booking process and through online check-in reminders. The airline is also deploying additional ground staff at both terminals, easily identifiable by special uniforms, to guide and assist travellers. Passengers have been advised to update their contact details and verify terminal information before travel for a smooth airport experience.
This operational reshuffle highlights Delhi Airport’s commitment to enhancing capacity and service quality for India’s growing air travel sector. With the Terminal 3 expansion, the airport aims to increase efficiency and accommodate rising passenger traffic in the coming years. Air India Group’s cooperation demonstrates its readiness to adapt operations for long-term benefits, prioritizing passenger comfort during the transition phase. Once the upgrades are complete, both Air India and Air India Express will benefit from a more modern and efficient infrastructure capable of supporting India’s fast-evolving aviation landscape.