If you’ve ever dropped off or received a friend or loved one at an airport, you know that the experience can be equal parts exciting and overwhelming. While passengers have their own streamlined check-in procedures, visitors often face restrictions in high-security zones like airports. However, Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) in New Delhi offers a solution—airport entry ticket access for non-travelers. Whether you're escorting an elderly parent, seeing off a first-time flyer, or simply want to spend a few extra minutes with someone before they fly, this system is designed to give you peace of mind.
Let’s explore how these airport entry tickets work, who can use them, how to get them, and the do’s and don’ts while using one.
An airport entry ticket is a pass that allows non-passengers (visitors) to access certain areas of the terminal, specifically the departure halls. This is especially useful at airports like Delhi, which sees millions of travelers pass through each year.
Unlike boarding passes which allow access beyond security checkpoints, the entry ticket grants access only to designated visitor areas such as the departure lobby or check-in counters. It does not allow entry into the security hold area or boarding gates.
Here are a few scenarios where an airport entry ticket becomes particularly helpful:
You can purchase the airport entry ticket directly at the terminal entrance counters of IGI Airport. Currently, entry tickets are issued for Terminals 1 and 3, and the process is quite straightforward:
Do note that during high-security alerts or emergencies, the sale of entry tickets might be suspended.
Before you head to the airport with the intention of entering the terminal with an entry ticket, here are some rules and tips to keep in mind:
Also, during peak hours, expect queues at the entry counters, so arrive early if you plan to accompany someone.
If you want a more personalized experience—especially for elderly or first-time flyers—consider opting for professional Meet and Greet Services offered at Delhi Airport. These services include help with check-in, baggage, and even fast-track security clearance in some cases. However, unlike airport entry tickets, these require prior booking and are generally more expensive.
During the height of the COVID-19 pandemic, the sale of entry tickets was halted to reduce crowding. However, with travel picking up and safety protocols in place, entry tickets are now available again, with added hygiene checks and limited visitor quotas to maintain safe distancing.
The airport entry ticket at Delhi Airport is a small but impactful provision that makes traveling a more human experience. It allows families to stay together a little longer, provides peace of mind to those helping loved ones navigate airports, and adds a comforting human touch to a place that’s often bustling with stress and haste.
While technology continues to streamline the airport experience, it's services like this that remind us travel isn’t just about moving from one place to another—it’s also about connection, support, and shared moments. If you’re planning to see someone off at IGI Airport soon, consider getting an entry ticket and be part of their journey, even if just for a little while.