Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport is set to introduce India’s first air train, known as the Automated People Mover (APM), by the end of 2027. This project aims to improve connectivity between Terminals 1, 2, and 3, making travel between them more convenient and faster.
Key Details of India’s First Air Train Project
The APM will cover a distance of approximately 7.7 kilometers, connecting important airport locations like Terminals 1, 2, and 3, Aerocity, and Cargo City. The current inter-terminal travel system, which uses DTC buses, will be replaced by this modern air train, reducing travel time and improving overall airport service quality (ASQ).
Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL) has announced that the air train project is expected to cost around ₹2,000 crore. The project is part of DIAL’s long-term plan to enhance passenger convenience and reduce the airport’s carbon footprint by offering a sustainable transport solution.
Background and Motivation for India’s First Air Train
The rising number of passengers at Delhi Airport has made inter-terminal connectivity crucial. Handling over 7 crore passengers annually, the airport expects this number to double in the next 6-8 years. With approximately 25% of these passengers being transit travelers, the need for fast and seamless connectivity between terminals has become essential.
How Will the Air Train Impact Passengers?
The air train will improve passenger experience by offering faster transit between terminals. The new system will reduce wait times, eliminate the need for shuttle buses, and enhance the airport’s overall efficiency. Globally, similar systems have been introduced in major airports, improving their international rankings. This step will place Delhi Airport on par with top global airports, boosting its international status.
Key Benefits of the Air Train
- Faster and more efficient inter-terminal travel.
- Improved passenger convenience and ASQ score.
- Reduced carbon emissions by replacing buses with a sustainable solution.
- Enhanced global competitiveness of Delhi Airport.
Tender Process and Timeline
DIAL has released a tender for the construction of the air train. Bids are expected in October and November 2024, and the contract will be awarded based on factors such as cost efficiency and revenue-sharing models. The project follows a Design, Build, Finance, Operate, and Transfer (DBFOT) model.
Table: Key Features of Delhi Airport Air Train
| Feature | Details |
| Distance | 7.7 kilometers |
| Stops | T1, T2/T3, Aerocity, Cargo City |
| Estimated Cost | ₹2,000 crore |
| Completion Date | End of 2027 |
| Impact on Carbon Footprint | Reduction through sustainable transport |
India’s First Air Train Key Points
- India’s first air train, Automated People Mover, to connect Terminals 1, 2, and 3.
- Project estimated to cost ₹2,000 crore, operational by 2027.
- Air train to enhance passenger experience and reduce carbon footprint.
- Global competitiveness of Delhi Airport to increase with this project.
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The air train, or Automated People Mover (APM), is a new transport system that will connect Terminals 1, 2, and 3 of Delhi Airport.
The air train is expected to be operational by the end of 2027.
The air train will reduce travel time between terminals, improving convenience for transit passengers.
The project is estimated to cost around ₹2,000 crore.
By replacing buses with an electric-powered train, the project will significantly reduce carbon emissions.