How Delhi Metro's ₹12,015 Cr Phase V(A) Will Transform Airport Access to T1

The Union Cabinet, led by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, has approved a major expansion of the Delhi Metro network. This Delhi Metro Phase V(A) expansion will add three new corridors to the capital’s transport system. The strategic project spans 16.076 km and carries a total estimated cost of ₹12,014.91 crore. This significant investment is a joint effort. Funding comes from the Government of India, the Government of Delhi, and international funding agencies. The entire project is scheduled for completion within the next three years.

Boosting Aviation Hub Connectivity

A critical component of this expansion is the focus on air travel. The new plan includes a vital 2.263 km extension: Aerocity to Indira Gandhi Domestic Airport Terminal-1 (T1). This link is a key branch of the upcoming Aerocity–Tughlakabad corridor.

This new corridor will significantly improve passenger experience. It will create a seamless inter-terminal transfer for travelers. Currently, Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGIA) Terminal 3 (T3) is connected by the Airport Express Line. Passengers arriving at T3 can use the Airport Express Line to reach Aerocity. From there, they can switch to the new line for direct access to T1, reducing transfer times.

• The extension will feature 13 new stations in total.
• Ten stations will be underground, and three will be elevated.
• This integration links southern hubs like Saket and Chattarpur directly to the domestic airport.

This metro link is crucial for the aviation sector. It will alleviate road congestion around the airport. This offers a faster, greener alternative for air passengers. Improved connectivity supports the government’s vision. This vision is to position Delhi as a major international aviation hub. The expansion directly impacts the efficiency of ground operations. It enhances the overall passenger journey for airlines like IndiGo and Air India operating domestic flights from T1.

Central Vista and South Delhi Integration

Beyond the airport, the expansion targets key administrative and residential areas. The highlight is the RK Ashram Marg to Indraprastha corridor. This underground extension spans 9.913 km. It will connect West, North, and Old Delhi with the Central Vista area.

This corridor, sometimes called the Kartavya Bhawan Corridor, is a major civic upgrade. It will provide direct Metro connectivity to key landmarks. These include Kartavya Bhawan, India Gate, and the War Memorial. This link is expected to benefit approximately 60,000 office-goers daily. It will also serve around 2 lakh daily visitors. For the first time, all Kartavya Bhawans will be accessible via high-speed transit. This will significantly reduce reliance on private vehicles in the high-security zone.

Environmental and Operational Impact

The third corridor, the 3.9 km Tughlakabad to Kalindi Kunj extension, further integrates South and Southeast Delhi. This connectivity is vital for a city with growing transit demand. The Delhi Metro system is already a world-class lifeline. It recorded a peak ridership of over 81 lakh passenger journeys on August 8, 2025.

• The project is expected to save approximately 33,000 tonnes of CO2 emissions annually.
• This reduction comes from decreased usage of fossil fuels.
• Once completed, the entire network will cross the 400 km mark.

This expansion ensures the system can handle future growth. It maintains its reputation for punctuality and safety. The project is a major piece of Delhi-NCR transport infrastructure. It supports the region's economic activity. As construction on Phase IV nears completion, Phase V(A) secures the future of commercial aviation news and urban mobility in the capital. The DGCA and other regulators recognize the importance of efficient airport access for smooth flight operations. For more flight operation news, visit flying.flights.