Air India’s Terminal Shift at Delhi Airport – Guide for Passengers

Posted on Friday, October 24th, 2025 by Chakshu Kaur Leave a Comment

Delhi Airport Flights are making headlines in the news in Delhi today, and the reason is Air India’s terminal shift at the airport Terminal 3. From October, some of Air India’s new flight operations and domestic routes will no longer fly from Terminal 3. Instead, selected flights are moving to the domestic terminal at Delhi to manage the rush and make travel smoother. 

This update is super important for anyone flying soon with Air India because your boarding terminal might not be the same anymore. So, before you leave for the airport, double-check where your flight is taking off from.

Air India’s New Terminal Details – Quick Breakdown

Here’s a simple table showing where all Air India flights are operating from after the shift at Delhi Airport. This makes it super easy to check your boarding terminal quickly.

Airline / Flight Type	Old Terminal	New Terminal	Effective Date
Air India (AI1XXX series domestic)	T3	T2 (Domestic Terminal Delhi)	26 Oct 2025
Air India Express (Domestic)	T3	T1	26 Oct 2025
All other Air India flights (including international & other domestic)	T3	T3 (airport terminal 3)	No Change

This update ensures smoother boarding and less crowding at the airport terminal 3. Make sure to check your flight number before heading out.

Why is this Terminal Shift Happening?

Air India’s terminal shift at Delhi Airport isn’t just random, it’s meant to make travel easier for passengers. Airport terminal 3 often gets crowded with both domestic and international flights, so moving specific domestic routes to other terminals helps reduce congestion. 

The domestic terminal Delhi (T2) now handles certain Air India flights, while T1 hosts all Air India Express domestic flights. This shuffle also helps airport staff manage check-ins, baggage, and boarding more efficiently. Overall, the change is designed to make your journey smoother, cut down waiting times, and give everyone a more organized experience when flying from Delhi Airport.

How does this affect passengers?

The terminal shift at Delhi Airport brings a few changes passengers should know about. If your flight is part of Air India’s new flight schedule, you might need extra time to reach the correct terminal. Domestic flyers on AI1XXX series routes will now check in at T2, while Air India Express passengers go to T1. 

Connecting flights might require using the inter-terminal shuttle or a short walk, depending on your route. While international flights remain at airport terminal 3, through-checked baggage will still be safely transferred. Overall, planning and double-checking your terminal can save you stress at the airport.

Air India Inter-Terminal Transfer Guide

Getting between terminals at Delhi Airport is now easier, thanks to shuttle services and walking options. Here’s a quick guide for different transfers:

Domestic ↔ Domestic Transfers

• T3 → T1: Go to the Bus Lounge at Arrival Hall Forecourt, collect a shuttle pass, and take the inter-terminal shuttle.
• T3 → T2: Terminals are within walking distance; buggy service is available for those needing help.

Domestic ↔ International Transfers

• T1 → T3: Use the inter-terminal shuttle.
• T2 → T3: Walking access is available; buggy service provided if required. Complete security and immigration at T3.

International → Domestic Transfers

• T3 → T1/T2: Collect checked baggage after immigration, clear customs, and deposit at the I–D Transfer Area.
• T3 → T1: Use the shuttle.
• T3 → T2: Walk directly; buggy service available.

All through-checked baggage will be securely transported by the airline, so you don’t have to worry.

Air India Check-in Timings You Must Remember

To avoid last-minute stress, knowing the check-in timings after Air India’s terminal shift is key. Here’s a simple breakdown:

Airline	Terminal	Check-in Opens Before Departure
Air India Domestic	T2 (Domestic Terminal Delhi)	2.5 hours
Air India International	T3 (Airport Terminal 3)	4 hours
Air India Express	T1	3 hours

Arriving early gives you enough time for security checks, baggage drop, and boarding without rushing. Always double-check your terminal and flight number before heading to Delhi Airport, especially if your flight is part of Air India’s new flight schedule.

Tips for Travelers to Avoid Last-Minute Panic

Flying after Air India’s terminal shift can be smooth if you follow a few simple tips:

• Check Your Terminal in Advance: Confirm whether your flight departs from T1, T2, or Terminal 3.
• Reach Early: Arrive at least 2–3 hours before departure to manage check-in and security.
• Use Shuttle Services Wisely: For transfers between terminals, follow the shuttle route or walking path as needed.
• Keep Flight Info Handy: Note your flight number and boarding gate to avoid confusion.
• Plan for Connections: If you have connecting flights, factor in extra time for terminal transfers.

FAQs

1. Which terminal is Air India at Delhi Airport?

A: Air India domestic flights under the AI1XXX series now operate from T2 (Domestic Terminal Delhi). Air India Express domestic flights move to T1, while all other Air India flights, including international, remain at T3.

2. Can I walk between T2 and T3 in Delhi Airport?

A: Yes, walking between T2 and T3 is possible. For those needing assistance, a buggy service is available.

3. Is there a shuttle from Terminal 2 to T3?

A: Yes, an inter-terminal shuttle runs between T2 and T3 for smoother transfers.

4. How do I transfer from T2 to T3 at Delhi Airport?

A: You can either walk directly or take the shuttle, depending on your luggage and preference.

5. Are T1 and T2 connected in Delhi Airport?

A: T1 and T2 are not directly connected by walking. You need to use the inter-terminal shuttle for transfers.