Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport is taking a big step forward by introducing India’s first driverless air train. This new system, called an Automated People Mover (APM), is designed to make getting around the airport quicker and easier for passengers. It will connect key parts of the airport, improving the overall travel experience.
Benefits of the Driverless Air Train for Travelers
The APM project is estimated to cost around INR 3,500 crore, creating a dedicated 7.7-km corridor that links Terminal 1, Terminal 2, Terminal 3, Aerocity, and Cargo City. Out of this corridor, 5.7 km will be elevated, while the remaining 2 km will be at ground level. This new air train will cut down travel time significantly and will replace the current shuttle service.
According to sources, Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), which manages IGI Airport, will finance this project. Once it’s up and running, the system will be similar to transit systems in major airports such as those in Dubai, Jakarta, Singapore, Zurich, and Seoul.
Key Points about the Upcoming Driverless Air Train
- The construction will take around 30 months, with operations expected to start between 2027 and 2029.
- This service will be free for passengers moving between terminals, although visitors will need to pay a small fee.
- The electric trains will help lower carbon emissions and ease road traffic at the airport.
- Initially, the system will handle about 40,000 to 50,000 passengers daily, with the potential to expand to 80,000 or 90,000 based on demand.
(Image credit: Zoshua Colah/Unsplash)
Note:
The information in this article is accurate as of the publication date.
