The Delhi metro airport express line, known for its efficient connectivity, is a vital link between Delhi’s New Delhi Railway Station and Indira Gandhi International Airport’s Terminal 3. Operating as the Delhi Metro Orange Line, this route covers a distance of 24.9 km and includes seven key stations, such as Dwarka Sector 21, Delhi Aerocity, and Shivaji Stadium. Its frequent service and strategic connections, including interchanges with other major metro lines, ensure a swift and convenient journey. Whether you’re travelling for business or leisure, the Airport Express Line provides a seamless travel experience to and from one of Delhi’s busiest transit hubs.
Delhi metro Airport Express Line: Latest update – Noida–Delhi Airport Metro
A 72-km high-speed metro corridor is being planned to connect Noida International Airport (Jewar) with IGI Airport, Delhi. With only six stations, it will reduce travel time between the two airports to 30 minutes.
Key Highlights:
- Direct, faster connectivity between IGI and Noida International Airport
- Faster alternative to road transport
- Enhanced last-mile access for Noida and Greater Noida commuters
The Orange Line will continue serving IGI–New Delhi travel, while this new corridor will boost inter-airport transit across NCR.
Airport express line metro: Main facts
| Key Details | Information |
|---|---|
| Operator | DMRC (Delhi Metro Rail Corporation) |
| Started Operations In | January 2013 |
| Number of Stations | 6 |
| Metro Line | Orange Line |
| Metro Line Length | 22.7 km |
| Delhi metro airport line timings | First train at 04:45 am and last train at 23:15 pm |
| Minimum and Maximum Fare | Rs 10 and Rs 50 |
| Stations | New Delhi, Shivaji Stadium, Dhaula Kuan, Aerocity, Delhi Aerocity (IGI Airport) Terminal 1, Dwarka Sector 21 |
| IGI Airport to New Delhi Travel Time | Approximately 15 minutes |
| Frequency | 10-15 minutes during peak hours, 20-25 minutes during non-peak hours |
| Speed | Up to 120 km/h (75 mph) |
| Contact (Flight Information) | 011-61234567 |
| 24-7 Helpline (Domestic Callers) | 0124-4797300 or 0124–6838410 |
| 24-7 Helpline (International Callers) | +91-124-4797300 or +91-124-6838410 |
Airport express metro line timings
| Train timings | ||
| Peak hours
(Every 10 minutes) |
Yashobhoomi Dwarka Sector – 25
07:30 – 19:30 |
New Delhi
08:00 – 20:00 |
| Non-peak hours
(Every 15 minutes) |
06:00 – 07:30
19:30 – 23:15 |
06:00 – 08:00
20:00 – 23:15 |
| Lean peak hours
(Every 20 minutes) |
04:40 – 06:00 | 05:00 – 06:00 |
| First train | 04:40 | 05:00 |
| Second train | 05:00 | 05:20 |
| Second last train | 23:00 | 23:15 |
| Last train | 23:15 | 23:40 |
Airport metro Delhi route to IGI airport
New Delhi to IGI Airport
New Delhi-Airport Express
↓
Shivaji Stadium
↓
Dhaula Kuan
↓
Delhi Aerocity
↓
IGI Airport
Delhi Cantt to IGI Airport
Delhi Cantt
↓
Durgabai Deshmukh South Campus
↓
Dhaula Kuan
↓
Delhi Aerocity
↓
IGI Airport
Dwarka Sector 21 to IGI Airport
Dwarka Sector 21
↓
IGI Airport
Shivaji Stadium to IGI Airport
Shivaji Stadium
↓
Dhaula Kuan
↓
Delhi Aerocity
↓
IGI Airport
Dhaula Kuan to IGI Airport
Dhaula Kuan
↓
Delhi Aerocity
↓
IGI Airport
How far is Terminal 3 from the Airport Metro station?
The IGI Airport Metro Station (Airport Express Line) is integrated with Terminal 3. After you exit the metro, you’ll be inside the Terminal 3 complex. Walking distance is less than 200 meters and typically takes just 2–4 minutes with escalators and lifts available throughout.
Airport express metro stations
- Yashobhoomi Dwarka Sector 25
- Dwarka Sector 21 (Interchange with Blue Line)
- IGI International Airport Terminal 3
- Delhi Aerocity
- Dhaula Kuan (Interchange to Pink Line through travelators)
- Shivaji Stadium
- New Delhi (Interchange with Yellow Line)
Airport express metro: Interchange stations
- Dwarka Sector 21: Blue Line
- New Delhi: Yellow Line
- Dhaula Kuan Station: Durgabai Deshmukh South Campus Station on Pink Line connected through travelator
Airport express metro line timings
| Train timings | ||
| Peak hours
(Every 10 minutes) |
Yashobhoomi Dwarka Sector – 25
07:30 – 19:30 |
New Delhi
08:00 – 20:00 |
| Non-peak hours
(Every 15 minutes) |
06:00 – 07:30
19:30 – 23:15 |
06:00 – 08:00
20:00 – 23:15 |
| Lean peak hours
(Every 20 minutes) |
04:40 – 06:00 | 05:00 – 06:00 |
| First train | 04:40 | 05:00 |
| Second train | 05:00 | 05:20 |
| Second last train | 23:00 | 23:15 |
| Last train | 23:15 | 23:40 |
Where is the New Delhi airport express metro station in Delhi airport?
The Delhi Metro Airport Express metro station is well connected to the Delhi airport and is available within the Delhi airport. You can easily follow the exit signs and leave the airport. The airport express line metro is located in the basement of the Delhi airport. You can use lift and escalators to descend towards the Delhi Metro Airport Express metro station. You can exit through gate number 4 and proceed straight. From a distance, you can see the signboard indicating the location of a metro station. The metro station is also at walking distance from Gate number 5 of the airport’s arrival area.
Terminal 1 Delhi airport metro: How to reach IGI Terminal 1 using Delhi metro
To reach Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport Terminal 1 using the Delhi Metro, take the Magenta Line, which provides direct connectivity to the terminal. The Terminal 1 – IGI Airport metro station is conveniently located near the terminal, making it easy for travellers to access the airport. Simply board a train on the Magenta Line and deboard at the Terminal 1 – IGI Airport station. From there, follow the signs to reach the terminal entrance.
Unlike the Airport Metro Express, this line directly serves Terminal 1 of the Indira Gandhi International Airport.
Delhi airport terminal 1 to metro station distance
The distance from IGI Airport Terminal 1 to the nearest metro station—Terminal 1 IGI Airport Metro Station on the Magenta Line—is about 300 to 400 meters. The station is directly connected to Terminal 1 via a covered walkway, and it typically takes 5–7 minutes to walk from the arrival/departure gates to the metro entrance. The walkway is well-marked with signs and equipped with travellators for easy luggage movement.
Metro station near IGI terminal 2: How to reach IGI Terminal 2 using Delhi metro
To reach Indira Gandhi International (IGI) Airport Terminal 2 using the Delhi Metro, board the Airport Express Line and deboard at the IGI Airport – Terminal 3 metro station. From here, it’s about a 6-minute walk to Terminal 2.
After you exit the metro station, head toward Terminal 3 by following the signs or asking any staff for guidance. When facing Terminal 3, look to your right—you’ll see a straight road and a flyover above. Walk in that direction toward the flyover and cross the road.
Once across, follow the signs directing you to Terminal 2. You’ll come across a shed or tunnel walkway designed explicitly for reaching Terminal 2. Walk through this tunnel, and once you exit, you’ll find Terminal 2 just across the road. Head to the first floor via the lift to access the departure area.
If you need further assistance, feel free to ask any airport official, as they are always available to help with directions.
How to reach IGI Airport Terminal 2 from the metro station?
IGI Airport Terminal 2 is closest to the IGI Airport Metro Station on the Airport Express Line (Orange Line). After deboarding at this station, follow signs for Terminal 2—it’s about a 6–8 minute walk via a dedicated covered passage. You can use lifts or escalators, and airport staff are available for assistance. The path is suitable for luggage and wheelchair users.
Airport metro map Delhi 2024
Delhi Airport Metro Line train frequency
Peak hours: 10 minutes
Non-peak hours: 15 minutes
| Peak/nonpeak hours at stations | New Delhi | Yashobhoomi Dwarka Sector 25 |
| Peak hour | 8 AM to 8 PM | 7:30 AM to 7:30 PM |
| Non-peak hour | 5:30 AM to 8 AM
8 AM to 11:30 PM |
5:15 AM to 7:30 AM
7:30 Am to 11:15 PM |
Facilities Provided at Airport Express Line
- Flight check-in
- Feeder bus services
- Cloak room
- Paid porter
- Trolleys
Delhi Airport Metro fare 2024
| Station | New Delhi | Shivaji Stadium | Dhaula Kuan | Delhi Aerocity | IGI Airport | Dwarka Sec 21 |
| New Delhi | Rs 10 | Rs 20 | Rs 40 | Rs 50 | Rs 60 | Rs 60 |
| Shivaji Stadium | Rs 20 | Rs 10 | Rs 20 | Rs 30 | Rs 50 | Rs 60 |
| Dhaula Kuan | Rs 40 | Rs 20 | Rs 10 | Rs 20 | Rs 30 | Rs 50 |
| Delhi Aerocity | Rs 50 | Rs 30 | Rs 20 | Rs 10 | Rs 20 | Rs 30 |
| IGI Airport | Rs 60 | Rs 50 | Rs 30 | Rs 20 | Rs 10 | Rs 20 |
| Dwarka Sec 21 | Rs 60 | Rs 60 | Rs 50 | Rs 30 | Rs 20 | Rs 10 |
WhatsApp-based ticketing on Delhi Metro Airport Line
The Delhi Metro on May 3, 2023, introduced WhatsApp-based ticketing service for travel on the Airport Express Line (AEL). With the introduction of this facility, commuters on the Airport Metro will now be able to use the WhatsApp Chatbot-based QR code tickets from their smartphones. This facility will make commuting more efficient and seamless for commuters, especially national and international travellers heading for, or coming from the airport using the airport metro. They can now purchase and use tickets generated in their phones itself through a dedicated WhatsApp chatbot, available in English and Hindi language.
How to get WhatsApp-based ticketing on Delhi Metro Airport Line?
Step 1: Add the DMRC’s official WhatsApp number 9650855800 in the contact list. Or, directly scan the Chatbot QR code displayed at customer care/ticket counters of all stations on Airport Express Line.
Step 2: Open WhatsApp and send “Hi” to the newly added contact number 9650855800.
Step 3: Select the preferred language.
Step 4: Choose the desired option i.e. Buy Ticket or Last Journey Tickets or Retrieve Ticket.
Step 5: Choose the Source and Destination station.
Step 6: Select the number of tickets to be purchased.
Step 7: Confirm and make the payment through the integrated payment gateway using a credit card or debit card or UPI.
Step 8: Receive a QR code ticket directly in the WhatsApp chat.
Step 9: Travel by tapping the QR ticket in your mobile at the designated scanner at AFC gates for entry and exit.
Features of WhatsApp ticketing service
Number of tickets: For single-journey tickets and a group of tickets, up to 6 QR tickets will be generated for each passenger.
Validity: The validity of the QR ticket is by the end of the business day. But once the entry is done, the passengers should exit within 65 minutes from the destination station.
Exit: For exit at the source station, a passenger should exit within 30 minutes from the time of entry.
Booking: Tickets cannot be booked after business hours i.e. from start of revenue services to close of revenue services of the day.
Cancellation: Cancellation of tickets is not allowed in WhatsApp ticketing.
Convenience fee: A marginal convenience fee will be charged for transactions done through credit/debit card. No convenience fee will be charged for UPI-based transactions.
Airport express line list of station landline numbers, mobile numbers
| Station Name | Landline No. | Station Mobile |
| New Delhi | 1123235558 | 8527390341 |
| Shivaji Stadium | 7290038048 | 8527390342 |
| Dhaula Kuan | 7290038058 | 8527390343 |
| Delhi Aerocity | 7290038068 | 8527390344 |
| IGI Airport | 7290027380 | 8527390345 |
| Dwarka Sector-21 | 7290045095 | 8800793197 |
Airport line metro: Flight Check-in Facilities
Passengers using the Airport Metro can enjoy the convenience of checking in for select flights at designated metro stations. This service allows passengers to complete the check-in process, including baggage drop, before reaching the airport, streamlining their journey and avoiding long queues. Flight check-in counters are available at New Delhi and Shivaji Stadium metro stations, enabling travelers to proceed directly to security upon arrival at the airport. This facility is particularly advantageous for both domestic and international passengers flying with participating airlines.
| Details | Information |
|---|---|
| 1. Metro Stations Offering City Check-in Facility | New Delhi Metro Station (Airport Express Line) |
| Counter Opening/Closing Time | Shivaji Stadium Metro Station (Airport Express Line) |
| From: 06:00 Hrs To: 21:00 Hrs | |
| From: 06:00 Hrs To: 21:00 Hrs | |
| 2. Name of the Airlines Offering City Check-in | Air India |
| From: 06:00 Hrs To: 21:00 Hrs | |
| Vistara | |
| From: 06:00 Hrs To: 20:00 Hrs | |
| 3. Sectors Where Airlines Operate | All domestic and international sectors |
| 4. Passenger and Baggage Check-in | Minimum: 2 hrs Maximum: 12 hrs before the scheduled departure |
| 5. Customer Care Numbers and Website | Air India: 1800 180 1407, www.airindia.in |
| Vistara: +91 928922888, www.airvistara.com |
Procedure
- Baggage drop: Passengers can drop off their check-in baggage at the designated counters within the specified timeframes.
- Boarding pass collection: After checking in, passengers receive their boarding passes instantly.
- Travel to IGI airport: The Airport Express Line provides a swift journey to IGI Terminal 3, with trains running every 10 minutes and the trip taking approximately 19 minutes.
- Proceed to security: Upon arrival at Terminal 3, passengers can proceed directly to security screening and immigration checks, bypassing the airline check-in counters.
Best public transport options for late-night or early-morning flights?
For travelers with late-night or early-morning flights when the Delhi Airport Metro Express Line is not operational (typically between 11:40 PM and 5:00 AM), several alternative public transportation options are available:
- Delhi Transport Corporation (DTC) Buses: DTC operates air-conditioned low-floor buses that connect Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) to various parts of Delhi. These buses run at regular intervals, including during late-night and early-morning hours, providing an economical option for passengers. Schedules and routes can be checked on the official DTC website or at airport information counters.
- Prepaid Taxis and Ride-Sharing Services: Prepaid taxi services are available 24/7 at IGI Airport. Passengers can book these taxis at designated counters within the airport terminals. Additionally, ride-sharing services like Uber and Ola operate round-the-clock in Delhi. Dedicated pick-up zones are designated at the airport for these services, ensuring convenient access for travelers.
- Inter-Terminal Shuttle Services: For passengers needing to transfer between terminals during non-metro hours, IGI Airport provides a complimentary shuttle service connecting Terminals 1, 2, and 3. These air-conditioned buses operate every 20 minutes, 24/7. Passengers with connecting flights can avail of this service for free by presenting their boarding passes; others may use the service for a nominal fee of INR 25.
- DMRC Feeder Bus Service: The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation offers a feeder bus service connecting Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. These buses run every 20 minutes, and passengers can use this service for a nominal fee of INR 40.
Airport Metro vs. taxi/cab/Ola/Uber: Speed, cost, and convenience compared
When deciding between the Delhi Airport Metro Express and hiring a taxi or app-based cab (Ola/Uber), your choice depends on several key factors: travel time, cost, comfort, luggage handling, and overall convenience. Here’s a side-by-side comparison based on real-world data and commuter feedback.
Speed
- Airport Metro Express:
The Metro runs non-stop from New Delhi Railway Station to IGI Terminal 3 in 19 minutes (plus 1–5 minutes wait for the next train). Including access time (security, ticketing, getting to/from platforms), expect a total travel time of 30–40 minutes from Connaught Place or Paharganj to Terminal 3. - Taxi/Ola/Uber:
By road, travel time depends on Delhi’s notorious traffic. At off-peak hours (late night, early morning), a cab may take 25–40 minutes from Connaught Place/New Delhi Railway Station to the airport. During rush hours, this can increase to 1–1.5 hours or more due to congestion on the arterial roads leading to IGI.
Cost
- Airport Metro:
Fixed fare: ₹60 per person (New Delhi–IGI Airport). No surge pricing. Kids above 90cm pay full fare.
Extra costs: None, unless using cloak room or feeder bus. - Taxi/Ola/Uber:
Regular cab fare:- Prepaid taxi: ₹400–₹600 (fixed fare from counter)
- Ola/Uber (economy/sedan): ₹350–₹800 (fares vary by demand, time, and surge pricing; can spike in rain, at night, or peak times)
- Night charges, airport surcharge, and tolls may apply.
- Sharing: Pool rides sometimes available, can be cheaper but slower.
Luggage handling
- Airport Metro:
Strict size/weight limits: 60x45x25 cm, up to 15kg per passenger. Oversized/extra bags may be denied or charged extra. Luggage trolleys available at metro stations. No porter service after boarding the train. - Taxi/Ola/Uber:
Cabs handle large suitcases, sports equipment, or multiple bags easily. Drivers usually help with loading/unloading. No strict limits.
Comfort & Convenience
- Airport Metro:
- Always air-conditioned, clean, safe, and punctual.
- Predictable travel time (no traffic delays).
- Reliable even during city-wide jams or strikes.
- Requires transfers/walk if starting from most NCR locations, or if arriving late at night/early morning (metro hours: 4:45 AM–11:15 PM).
- Taxi/Ola/Uber:
- Door-to-door drop-off: No need to change vehicles or carry bags between platforms.
- Available 24/7, including late night and early morning.
- Ride can be affected by city traffic, ongoing protests, road closures, or weather.
- Comfortable for families, senior citizens, or when traveling with lots of luggage.
When to choose Airport Metro?
- If traveling solo or as a couple, and not overloaded with baggage.
- Need guaranteed fast travel to/from the airport during peak hours.
- Want a predictable, low-cost option.
- Arriving/departing within metro operational hours.
When to choose taxi/Ola/Uber?
- Traveling as a group or family, or with elderly/disabled persons.
- Have heavy/large or multiple bags.
- Need door-to-door pickup or are traveling during non-metro hours (late night/early morning).
- Prefer convenience of private transport or are starting from/going to places far from metro stations.
Quick comparison table
| Feature | Airport Metro | Taxi/Ola/Uber |
| Travel time (peak) | 30–40 mins (fixed) | 60–90 mins (varies) |
| Travel time (off-peak) | 30–35 mins (fixed) | 25–40 mins |
| Fare (per person) | ₹60 | ₹350–₹800 (per ride) |
| Luggage allowance | 1 medium bag/person | Flexible |
| Comfort | AC, clean, standing ok | Private, door-to-door |
| Hours | 4:45 AM–11:15 PM | 24/7 |
| Delay risk | Minimal | High (traffic, etc.) |
| Accessibility | Stairs/lifts required | Home/hotel doorstep |
Baggage rules and security checks on the Delhi Airport metro
When travelling on the Delhi Metro’s Airport Express Line, you must know the baggage policies and security procedures to ensure a smooth journey.
Baggage restrictions:
- Size and weight limits: The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) has set specific weight limits for baggage. Bags should not exceed 60 cm in length, 45 cm in width, and 25 cm in height, with a maximum weight of 15 kg. Baggage exceeding these dimensions may not be permitted on the metro.
- Check-in facility limitations: For passengers utilising the check-in and baggage drop facilities at New Delhi and Shivaji Stadium metro stations, only baggage not exceeding the prescribed dimensions of 35 inches by 25 inches will be accepted. Oversized or overweight baggage may need to be transported by other means.
Security procedures:
- Screening process: All passengers must place their hand baggage, along with personal items such as cell phones, laptops, and other electronics, into trays provided at the security checkpoint for screening. Metal objects like belts and bracelets should also be placed in the trays to prevent triggering alarms.
- Personal checks: During baggage screening, passengers will undergo a personal check at designated booths. It’s advisable to be prepared for this process to ensure a swift passage through security.
- Prohibited items: Passengers should familiarise themselves with the list of prohibited items to avoid carrying restricted articles that could cause delays or confiscation. This includes sharp objects, large electronics, and liquids exceeding 100 ml.
Delhi metro airport line: Impact on real estate
The Delhi Metro’s Airport Express Line, also known as the Orange Line, has significantly influenced the real estate landscape in the National Capital Region (NCR). By enhancing connectivity between key areas, it has spurred both commercial and residential property developments along its route.
Enhanced connectivity and accessibility
The Airport Express Line links the New Delhi Railway Station to the Indira Gandhi International Airport, covering approximately 22.7 kilometers with stations at strategic locations such as Shivaji Stadium, Dhaula Kuan, Delhi Aerocity, and Dwarka Sector 21. This connectivity has made commuting more efficient, reducing travel time and easing congestion on roads. As a result, areas surrounding these metro stations have become more accessible, attracting real estate investments.
Impact on commercial real estate
The expansion of the metro network in Delhi-NCR has been a catalyst for the growth of commercial property prices. Improved connectivity has led to increased footfall in commercial areas near metro stations, making them attractive for businesses and investors. For instance, the commissioning of the Blue Line in 2005 saw a significant rise in commercial property transactions, indicating a positive correlation between metro connectivity and commercial real estate development.
Influence on residential property values
Residential areas along the Airport Express Line have experienced appreciation in property values due to enhanced accessibility and reduced travel times. The convenience of proximity to a high-speed transit system has made these localities desirable for homebuyers and renters, leading to increased demand and subsequent rise in property prices.
Transit-oriented development (TOD)
The concept of Transit-Oriented Development has gained momentum with the expansion of the metro network. TOD focuses on creating high-density, mixed-use developments within walking distance of transit stations. This approach has led to the development of residential and commercial projects near metro stations, promoting sustainable urban growth and increasing property values in these zones.
FAQs
What are the stations on the Delhi Airport Express Line?
The Airport Express Line has 7 stations: New Delhi, Shivaji Stadium, Dhaula Kuan, Delhi Aerocity, IGI Airport (T3), Dwarka Sector 21, and Yashobhoomi Dwarka Sector 25.
Which metro line connects directly to Terminal 3 of Delhi Airport?
The Orange Line (Airport Express Line) connects directly to Terminal 3 of IGI Airport.
How to reach Terminal 2 of Delhi Airport from New Delhi Metro Station?
Take the Airport Express Line to Terminal 3 and walk 6–8 minutes to Terminal 2.
How to travel from Shivaji Stadium to IGI Airport using the metro?
Board the Airport Express Line from Shivaji Stadium and alight at IGI Airport Station.
What is the color of the Delhi Airport Metro Line?
The Airport Express Line is marked in Orange.
Where can I find the Delhi Airport Express Line route map?
The route map is available on DMRC’s official website and at all Airport Express stations.
What is the travel time between Delhi Airport and New Delhi Railway Station via metro?
It takes approximately 19 minutes from IGI Airport to New Delhi Metro Station.
What are the first and last train timings on the Airport Express Line?
The first train starts at 4:45 AM and the last train departs around 11:15 PM.
What is the train frequency on the Delhi Airport Express Metro?
Trains run every 10 minutes during peak hours and every 15–20 minutes during non-peak hours.
What is the fare on the Delhi Airport Metro Express Line?
Fares range from ₹10 to ₹60 depending on the distance traveled.
How much is the metro fare from New Delhi Railway Station to IGI Airport?
The fare from New Delhi to IGI Airport is ₹60.
Where is the Airport Express Metro station located inside Delhi Airport?
The metro station is in the basement of Terminal 3, accessible via escalators and lifts.
Is there direct metro connectivity to Terminal 1 of Delhi Airport?
No, Terminal 1 is connected by the Magenta Line, not the Airport Express.
How to change from the Yellow Line to the Airport Express Line at New Delhi?
Use the interchange passage at New Delhi Metro Station to switch from Yellow Line to Airport Express Line.
Are flight check-in services available at any Airport Metro stations?
Yes, city check-in counters are available at New Delhi and Shivaji Stadium stations for select airlines.
Is the Delhi Airport Metro operational at night?
No, it operates from around 4:45 AM to 11:15 PM and is closed overnight.
How to reach Delhi Airport using the metro from Civil Lines or other central locations?
Take the Yellow Line to New Delhi Station and transfer to the Airport Express Line for IGI Airport.
| Got any questions or point of view on our article? We would love to hear from you. Write to our Editor-in-Chief Jhumur Ghosh at jhumur.ghosh1@housing.com |
