New Delhi |
If you’re planning an international trip from Delhi after April 16, be ready to pay more. The Airports Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) has announced a sharp increase in User Development Fees (UDF) for international passengers at Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA). However, domestic passengers won’t be affected, as their UDF remains unchanged.
💼 What Is Changing?
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Economy class international passengers will now pay Rs 650 (up from Rs 129) while flying out and Rs 275 on arrival.
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Business class international passengers will pay Rs 810 for departures and Rs 345 for arrivals.
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This is a massive 404% to 528% increase, aimed at improving airport infrastructure and services.
🧳 What Stays the Same?
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Domestic passengers will continue to pay Rs 129 for departures and Rs 56 for arrivals.
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AERA noted that 80% of the airport’s traffic is domestic, and chose not to burden them with higher charges.
🛬 Changes in Landing Charges Too:
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For wide-body aircraft:
• Rs 564 (Domestic)
• Rs 785 (International) -
For narrow-body aircraft:
• Rs 347 (Domestic)
• Rs 570 (International)
🧾 Why the Price Hike?
According to AERA, the hike is necessary for:
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Funding capital expenditure for expansion.
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Ensuring better passenger experience, especially for international flyers.
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Meeting service standards under the State Support Agreement (SSA) and OMDA (Operation, Management and Development Agreement).
AERA clarified that while Delhi airport operator DIAL proposed a 730% hike, the regulator approved a much lower 140% increase after careful analysis.
The revised UDF and landing charges will be effective from April 16, 2025, to March 31, 2029.
