New Delhi, September 01, 2025: Delhi Airport, operated and managed by a GMR Aero-led consortium, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), is marking its arrival as one of the world’s fastest-growing transit hubs. GMR AERO, Asia’s largest airport operator, has been instrumental in driving this transformation. A powerful indicator of this rise: International-to-International (I to-I) transfers increasing by 244%, jumping from 388,000 in FY 2023 to 1.34 million in FY 2025, according to IATA data.
 
Delhi Airport today stands out as the best directly connected airport to North America and Europe in South and Southeast Asia, offering unmatched global accessibility for passengers traveling through or to India, according to IATA Airport IS data. This strategic connectivity, paired with robust infrastructure and transit-friendly services, is propelling DEL’s stature as the preferred international layover airport in the region.

Delhi Airport’s strategic location in the East–West corridor positions it as a pivotal gateway for international connectivity. Early successes, such as the Central Asia–Thailand route, underscore the airport’s growing role in facilitating seamless transfers across regions.

With Air India and IndiGo preparing to expand operations and introduce additional wide-body aircraft, the potential for new routes and enhanced connectivity is set to accelerate. The current surge in transfer passenger traffic is a strong indicator of this growth trajectory, signalling substantial opportunities in the years ahead.

"The exponential growth of 244% in International-to-International transfers at Delhi Airport is a strong testament to our emergence as a global transit hub. This achievement is the result of our focused efforts and commitment to providing seamless connectivity, best-in-class infrastructure, and a world-class passenger experience. Aligned with the Government of India's strategic vision to position Delhi as a leading international transit gateway, we have been continuously working to build a hub that connects continents. We are proud to contribute to this national goal and remain committed to providing a seamless and enriching experience for every transiting passenger,” said CEO DIAL Mr. Videh Kumar Jaipuriar.

Record-breaking I-to-I Segment Growth

• FY 2023: 388K passengers
• FY 2025: 1.34 M passengers
• Growth: +244%
  This phenomenal spike in I-I transfers far outpaces the overall transfer traffic growth, making Delhi a preferred hub for connecting long-haul routes.

Healthy Overall Transfer Growth

• Total transfers rose from 15.6 M in FY23 to 20.3 M in FY25, a 30.6% rise.
• Other segments that grew strongly: D-D (Domestic-Domestic): 10.5 M (+15.9%)

Catalysts Behind the Growth

• Central Asia–Thailand corridor: IndiGo launched round trips connecting Bangkok and Phuket with Almaty, Tashkent, Tbilisi and Baku, triggering an approximate 500% increase in I-to-I transfers via these routes.

Enhanced Facilities for Transit Passengers at DEL
Delhi Airport has invested significantly in transit infrastructure and passenger-centric services to support its evolving role. Highlights include:

• Specialized I-to-I Transit Zone: Phase 3A expansion doubled the I-to-I transfer area, F&B and retail outlets, frisking booths, and X-ray machines for smoother processing.
• Transfer & Meet-and-Assist Services: Dedicated transit desks, buggy assistance (in T3), porter support, and optional lounge access for I-to-I and other segments make connections effortless.
• Transit Lounge & Nap/Shower Facilities: At Terminal 3 arrivals airside, passengers can enjoy power naps, showers, and refreshments in lounges like Encalm Privé, and others.
• Transit Hotel: The Holiday Inn Express at T3 International wing offers restful overnight stays with temperature control, blackout shades, mini-bar, TV, and comfortable bedding—ideal for layover passengers.
• 360° Virtual Navigation & Wayfinding: Real-image terminal maps accessible via QR codes at T1 and T3 simplify transit navigation, guiding travelers to transfer desks, gates, and baggage areas.
• Metro & Inter-Terminal Connectivity:
• Airport Express (Orange Line) and Magenta Line offer rapid transit between terminals and central Delhi, with Metro stations at T3, Aerocity and T1.
• Free airport shuttle buses operate every ~10 minutes between terminals.
• Passenger Experience Enhancements:
• “DEL Vibes” cultural experience at T3 includes live classical music, dance, crafts, and interactive segments running daily between 10 a.m. and 6 p.m. to relax transit passengers.
• Digital services like Biometric Registration Kiosks for e-visa holders are designed to streamline the travel experience.
• Differently Coloured directional signage for following the way to Transfer areas

Why Delhi Airport Dominates as a Transit Hub

The 244% leap in international-to-international transfers firmly demonstrates Delhi’s growing reliability as a connecting hub. This surge reflects:

• A growing network of direct international routes and strategic alliances.
• Seamless, passenger-focused infrastructure-from lounges and hotels to transit operations and cultural engagement.
• Smart integration of digital tools and metro connectivity enables hassle-free movement across terminals and within the city.

Delhi Airport, with seamless connectivity to around 150 destinations worldwide, is the only Indian airport to be among the top 10 hub airports in the Asia-Pacific and Middle East region, according to the 2024 Air Connectivity Ranking released by Airports Council International Asia-Pacific & Middle East (ACI APAC & MID) recently.