Wednesday, September 25, 2024 Delhi Airport is set to introduce India’s first-ever air train, providing seamless and efficient transfers between terminals, enhancing passenger convenience and experience. By the end of 2027, traveling between Terminal 3 (T3) and Terminal 1 (T1) at Delhi Airport is set to become much easier, thanks to the planned Automated People Mover (APM), also known as the air train. Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) has already issued a tender for this highly anticipated project, which will feature four stops: T2/3, T1, Aerocity, and Cargo City.
Covering a 7.7 km route, the APM will eliminate the need for Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) buses for terminal transfers. DIAL, backed by GMR, is expected to start accepting bids for the project in late 2024.
The winning bidder must propose a cost-effective solution, likely through revenue-sharing models or viability gap funding, with the contract awarded by the end of the fiscal year. Construction is projected to finish by 2027, with the timeline communicated to the Union Aviation Ministry to ensure the project stays on track. The APM will be built using the design, build, finance, operate, and transfer (DBFOT) model and aims to provide hassle-free, reliable connectivity between terminals, significantly enhancing passenger comfort and operational efficiency at the airport.
In addition to improving travel convenience, the APM will help reduce the airport’s carbon footprint and boost its Airport Serv.