Delhi’s IGI Airport Recognized as One of the Top 10 Hub Airports
Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport has achieved a remarkable milestone by being the only Indian airport to be ranked among the top 10 hub airports in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East regions, according to the 2024 Air Connectivity Ranking released by Airports Council International (ACI). The airport is recognized for its extensive connectivity, serving 153 destinations globally, which includes 81 domestic and 72 international routes. This recognition aligns with the Indian government’s ambition to position Delhi as a major global transit hub.
Significant Achievements in Connectivity
Delhi Airport has made significant strides in enhancing its connectivity, which is a crucial factor in its top ranking. The airport now connects to 153 destinations worldwide, showcasing its robust network of 81 domestic and 72 international routes. This extensive reach not only facilitates travel for millions but also supports the Indian government’s vision of making Delhi a global transit hub. The airport’s CEO, Videh Kumar Jaipuriar, expressed pride in this achievement, emphasizing the commitment to excellence and innovation in service delivery. He highlighted that this recognition is a testament to the airport’s ongoing efforts to improve passenger experience and connectivity.
The airport’s strategic location and comprehensive route network have positioned it as a vital player in the aviation sector, particularly for long-haul travel. With 88% of India’s long-haul destinations and 56% of long-haul weekly flights originating from Delhi, the airport is increasingly becoming the preferred choice for international travelers. Each year, it facilitates around 4 million domestic-to-international transfer passengers, further solidifying its status as South Asia’s primary transit hub.
Infrastructure Enhancements and Passenger Experience
To support its growing passenger volume and enhance the travel experience, Delhi Airport has undertaken significant infrastructure upgrades. The Phase 3A expansion project has doubled the international-to-international transfer area, significantly increasing capacity and improving convenience for travelers. Recent upgrades also include the installation of biometric registration kiosks for e-visa holders, which streamline immigration and transit processes, making travel smoother for passengers.
These enhancements are part of a broader strategy to improve the overall passenger experience at the airport. The introduction of new routes, including destinations such as Phnom Penh, Bali Denpasar, Calgary, Montreal, Vancouver, Washington Dulles, Chicago OโHare, and Tokyo Haneda, reflects the airport’s commitment to expanding its international footprint. As a result, the airport is not only accommodating more passengers but also offering them a wider array of travel options.
Future Prospects and Global Gateway Status
Looking ahead, Delhi Airport is poised to strengthen its position as a global gateway hub. The airport operator has noted that with Indian carriers increasingly deploying wide-body aircraft, the airport is on track to enhance its role as a preferred gateway for international and long-haul travelers. The airport’s strategic initiatives aim to further improve connectivity and operational efficiency, ensuring that it remains competitive on the global stage.
The 2025 ACI rankings introduced a new ‘Hub Connectivity Index’ that evaluates airports based on operational quality and efficiency. Key metrics include transfer viability, timing windows, and the strength of onward connectivity. In this new index, Delhi Airport ranked tenth, a significant achievement that underscores its growing importance in the aviation landscape. As the airport continues to evolve and expand, it is set to play a crucial role in shaping the future of air travel in India and beyond.
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