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Delhi's Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) is about to take a major step towards modernizing its infrastructure. By 2027, IGI will introduce India's first-ever air train system, also known as the Automated People Mover (APM). This new mode of transportation will significantly improve the travel experience at the airport, offering quick and easy connectivity between its terminals and other important spots within the airport.
Key Features and Benefits
The new air train will cover a distance of 7.7 kilometers, connecting Terminal 1, Terminal 2, and Terminal 3, along with stops at Aerocity and Cargo City. This development aims to make it much easier for passengers to move between these key points.
1. Enhanced Connectivity: Currently, passengers rely on a bus service to get from one terminal to another. The new air train will offer a seamless and much faster connection between terminals. No more waiting for buses - this system is designed to save time and make the journey smoother for travelers.
2. Convenience: With the air train replacing the bus service, it will offer more convenience to passengers, especially those in a hurry to catch connecting flights. The train will be frequent and reliable, meaning travelers won't have to worry about missing their connections due to road traffic or bus delays.
3. Environmental Impact: Another major advantage is that the air train will be powered by electricity. This will reduce the airport's reliance on fuel-powered vehicles, cutting down carbon emissions and supporting the airport's efforts to become more environmentally friendly.
4. Improved Passenger Experience: The overall travel experience for passengers is expected to improve greatly. With shorter wait times and less stress over moving between terminals, travelers will find IGI much more comfortable. The Airport Service Quality (ASQ) score, which measures passenger satisfaction, is expected to rise once the air train is operational.
Project Timeline and Cost
The air train is set to be fully operational by the end of 2027. This massive project is estimated to cost around ₹2,000 crore. While this is a significant investment, it is expected to pay off by improving the efficiency of the airport and enhancing the overall experience for passengers.
Environmental and Operational Benefits
Beyond convenience and speed, the air train will have a positive impact on the environment and the airport's operational efficiency.
1. Lower Emissions: The switch from diesel-powered buses to an electric air train will significantly reduce emissions. This move aligns with IGI's goal to reduce its carbon footprint and contribute to more sustainable airport operations.
2. Energy Efficiency: The air train system is designed to be energy-efficient, further supporting the airport's green initiatives and ensuring that it operates with minimal environmental impact.
3. Reliable and Consistent Service: Unlike road transport, which can be affected by traffic or delays, the air train will operate on a fixed schedule, providing consistent service. Passengers will no longer have to worry about delays caused by road traffic within the airport.
4. Increased Capacity: The air train will be able to carry more passengers at a time compared to the current bus service. This will help the airport manage the growing number of passengers, especially as air travel continues to expand.
Other Airports Around The World Use Air Train
Many airports around the world use air train systems to make it easier to get between terminals and other important areas:
1. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK) in New York has the AirTrain JFK, which connects all terminals, parking areas, hotel shuttles, and public transportation.
2. Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) in New Jersey has the AirTrain Newark, which links the terminals to the train station for Amtrak and New Jersey Transit.
3. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) has the AirTrain SFO, which connects all terminals, parking garages, the rental car center, and the public transit station.
4. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL) has the Plane Train, which connects all concourses and the domestic terminal.
By 2027, Delhi's IGI Airport will join the ranks of international airports with cutting-edge transport systems. This project will not only modernize the airport but also ensure that it remains one of the top travel hubs in the region, offering passengers a smoother, greener, and more comfortable experience.
