
Delhi Airport (DEL) recommends that passengers arrive 3 hours before their domestic flight and 4 hours before their international flight. The airport allows passengers to enter the terminal anytime on the date of their travel. For international flights, passengers are allowed to enter up to 8 hours before departure. However, check-in for international flights typically starts 3-4 hours before departure, and passengers without a boarding pass will not be able to proceed beyond the check-in area. Additionally, lounges are only accessible 3 hours prior to departure. Therefore, while early arrival at the airport is possible, passengers should be aware of the limited facilities available before check-in opens.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| How early can you enter the terminal for an international flight? | Entry is allowed up to 8 hours before departure. |
| How early can you enter the terminal for a domestic flight? | Passengers can enter anytime on the date of travel. |
| How early can you check in for an international flight? | Check-in opens 4 hours prior to departure. |
| How early can you check in for a domestic flight? | Check-in opens 3 hours prior to departure. |
| How early should you arrive at the airport for an international flight? | Passengers are requested to reach the airport 4 hours prior to their departure. |
| How early should you arrive at the airport for a domestic flight? | Passengers are requested to reach the airport 3 hours prior to their departure. |
| What to do if you arrive at the airport early? | There is plenty of space to sit outside the terminal if you arrive too early and are not allowed to enter. |
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What You'll Learn

International flights: Entry is allowed up to 8 hours before departure
When travelling on international flights from Delhi Airport, it is important to plan your arrival at the airport in advance to ensure a smooth experience. While the check-in counters for international flights are typically open until 75 minutes before departure, it is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport well in advance to complete all necessary airport formalities.
In general, it is advised to reach Delhi Airport at least three to four hours before the scheduled departure time of your international flight. This buffer allows for any potential delays or long queues that may arise during security checks or other transit procedures. With three terminals handling different types of flights, navigating the airport and locating the correct terminal can also take some time.
For those transferring between domestic and international flights, Delhi Airport offers a seamless experience. All international flights depart from Terminal 3 (T3), and some domestic flights also operate from the same terminal, making it convenient for passengers to transition without leaving the terminal. However, it is important to note that the lounges may only be accessible three hours before departure.
To further streamline your transit through Delhi Airport, it is recommended to utilise the ''Atithya Meet and Assist' service. This service includes airport meet and assist, concierge, baggage assistance, and buggy services, ensuring a comfortable and hassle-free journey through the airport. Additionally, passengers can take advantage of the free Wi-Fi available across all terminals to stay connected and informed during their time at the airport.
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Domestic flights: Passengers can enter anytime on the date of travel
If you are travelling on a domestic flight from Delhi Airport, you can enter the terminal anytime on the date of your flight. This means that you can arrive at the airport as early as you like on the day of your flight, and you will be allowed to enter the terminal. This rule applies to both Terminal 1 and Terminal 3, which currently offer seamless travel via the DigiYatra system.
When you arrive at the airport, you will need to scan your boarding pass using the DigiYatra App. It is recommended that you upload your boarding pass to the app before your flight for confirmation, but always carry a physical or mobile backup. At the security E-Gate, you will need to look into the FRS camera for ID and travel document validation. After this, you can proceed with your security check and boarding.
If you are transferring from a domestic flight to an international flight, you can also stay airside for up to 12 hours. However, keep in mind that the lounges are only accessible three hours before your departure time, and it may not be comfortable to wait for long periods outside of the lounges.
While there are no official rules about how early you can enter the terminal, it is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport three hours before their domestic flight departure. This will give you enough time to check in, go through security, and board your flight without rushing.
In summary, if you are travelling on a domestic flight from Delhi Airport, you can enter the terminal anytime on the day of your flight. However, to ensure a smooth and stress-free experience, it is best to arrive at the airport at least three hours before your flight.
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Check-in: Opens 4 hours before departure
When travelling, it is always a good idea to arrive at the airport early. This allows for any potential delays and ensures a stress-free experience. While some sources suggest that check-in for international flights at Delhi Airport opens 4 hours before departure, there are a few things to consider that may impact this.
Firstly, it is important to note that Delhi Airport has separate terminals for international and domestic flights. International flights usually depart from Terminal 3 (T3), while Terminals 1 and 2 are used for domestic flights only. Therefore, it is crucial to check your ticket for the correct terminal to avoid any confusion or delays.
Secondly, it is recommended that passengers flying from Delhi Airport enrol for DigiYatra to enjoy a seamless experience. DigiYatra is a programme that allows passengers to use dedicated gates at the entry of Terminals 2 and 3, as well as at the security check area. This can significantly reduce waiting times. However, non-DigiYatra passengers can still use other gates to enter the airport and proceed with security checks.
Additionally, passengers are advised to carry valid identification and necessary travel documents, such as tickets or boarding passes. For domestic flights within India, a valid document of identity is required, while a passport is mandatory for international flights. It is also beneficial to complete web check-in before leaving for the airport and to stay updated on flight statuses through the Delhi Airport Flight Status Tracker.
Lastly, when it comes to luggage, it is essential to review the baggage guidelines provided by your airline, including weight limits and restrictions. This will help you avoid any issues during check-in and luggage checking at the airport. In general, it is recommended to avoid carrying items like scissors, knives, and batteries in your hand luggage, and liquids over 100ml are typically not permitted.
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Transport: Delhi Metro is within walking distance
Delhi Airport advises passengers to arrive 3 hours before their domestic flight and 4 hours before their international flight. For international flights, entry is allowed up to 8 hours before departure. Passengers arriving 6-8 hours before their flight should be fine. However, one passenger who arrived 9.30-10 pm for a 4 am flight reported that there is plenty of space to sit outside if entry is not allowed.
The Delhi Metro is a convenient way to get to the airport. The Airport Metro Line, also known as the Orange Line, connects the Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI Airport) with the New Delhi Railway Station. The distance from Terminal 3 to the New Delhi Railway Station is approximately 18 to 21 kilometers, and the metro is the quickest way to travel this route. The last train on the Delhi Metro is at 11:40 pm.
The Magenta Line station of the Delhi Metro is within walking distance of the airport. Terminals 2 and 3 are within close proximity, with a distance of 1.3 km between them, which can be covered on foot in less than 20 minutes. A free shuttle bus is also available for easy transfers between terminals, departing every 20 minutes.
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DigiYatra: Scan your boarding pass using the app
Delhi Airport (DEL) is committed to providing a hassle-free travel experience for all passengers. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to use the DigiYatra app to scan your boarding pass:
Before your flight, upload your boarding pass to the DigiYatra app for confirmation. Always carry a physical or mobile backup of your boarding pass, just in case. When you arrive at the airport, use the app to scan your boarding pass at the security E-Gate. The FRS camera will validate your ID and travel documents. After validation, proceed with your security check and boarding as usual.
Delhi Airport also provides a helpful helpline (0124-4797311 or 0124-6838400) and a comprehensive FAQ page on its website for any further queries. It is recommended that passengers reach the airport 3 hours before their domestic flight and 4 hours before international flights.
Entry times at Delhi Airport
Delhi Airport allows passengers to enter the terminal anytime on the date of their travel for domestic flights. For international flights, entry is allowed up to 8 hours before departure. Passengers with a valid ticket or e-ticket receipt with a 2D barcode can enter the international terminal. Check-in usually opens 3-4 hours before departure, but it is recommended to check with your airline for specific timings.
Inter-terminal transfer
Delhi Airport currently operates from Terminals 1 and 3, with all flights from Terminal 2 shifted to Terminal 1 until further notice. A complementary Inter-Terminal Shuttle service is available every 20 minutes between Terminals 1, 2, and 3. There are also bus services operated by the Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) that connect the terminals.
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Frequently asked questions
It is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport three hours before their domestic flight's departure time. Passengers can enter the terminal anytime on the date of travel.
It is recommended that passengers arrive at the airport four hours before their international flight's departure time. Passengers can enter the terminal up to eight hours before departure.
To enter the terminal, passengers need to show a valid flight ticket or e-ticket receipt printed with a 2D barcode for that day. Passengers also need a paper boarding pass, which can be obtained at the departure airport counter.
No, under normal circumstances, passengers cannot exit the terminal after entering. Therefore, it is recommended that passengers only enter the terminal when necessary.




























