*Last updated on: December 8, 2020
COVID-19 Safety Measures at Delhi Indira Gandhi Intl Airport
Delhi's main airport has undergone some major alterations to handle the COVID-19 outbreak. So, what sort of COVID-19 safety measures at Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport should visitors be aware of? This primer will run through the most important details to make arrival simple.
What airport measures are currently in place for travelers?
As with most international airports, Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport has instituted extensive cleaning and social distancing measures, alongside mandatory face masks for travelers. The government has also mandated that travelers require a negative COVID-19 test, taken within 96 hours of flying. This test result needs to be entered onto a Air Suvidha Self Reporting Form, which is then presented at passport control. Some businesses have also been closed during the pandemic, hand sanitizer is being made available, and efforts have been made to ensure that the whole arrivals process is as contactless as possible, limiting face to face contact or touching surfaces.
Do immigration or security checkpoints have new procedures?
Yes, as outlined above it will be necessary to fill out an Air Suvidha Self Reporting Form before you arrive. This shouldn't be too time consuming, and can be done while you are in the air, although it makes sense to do so well in advance. All arrivals are also required to undergo thermal scanning to detect elevated temperatures.
Are there any screening or testing facilities at Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport?
Yes, DIAL has created a state of the art testing center within the airport precinct, which is able to carry out PCR tests for the COVID-19 virus. Tests take between four to six hours to produce a result, which can be sent to smartphones instantly. The center is open 24/7, so all flights can be accommodated, fees will apply and a booking is needed by using the form provided. A passport number will be required, so have documentation handy before visiting the site.
What are the social distancing and face covering policies at Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport?
Travelers will need to wear face coverings at all times when inside the DIAL terminals, and floor markings have been provided to ensure that passengers maintain a safe distance from their fellow visitors. If you need a replacement mask, retailers and vending machines are available, as is free hand sanitizer.
Does the airport have a clinic?
DIAL has a new COVID-19 testing center and pharmacies are present in all terminals, so if you need to buy medication that shouldn't be a problem. Terminals 1, 2 and 3 also possess Medanta centers with trained medical professionals. If you require any help, they are open 24/7 and all passengers are welcome to use them.
How regularly is Delhi Indira Gandhi International Airport being cleaned during the COVID-19 crisis?
The airport reports that santisation measures have been increased dramatically during the pandemic, with public spaces being cleaned multiple times throughout the day. Seating has also been reorganised, so that seats can be cleaned and cordoned off to ensure safe distancing.
Are the shops and restaurants at the airport open as normal?
Not everywhere. Almost all of the shops and restaurants in Terminal 3 at DIAL have reopened and are available for passengers to use. However, this terminal is limited to domestic flights, and the situation is different in terminals 1 and 2 which cater for international arrivals. Expect a few takeaway eateries and convenience stores in those terminals, but not all outlets will be open as normal. If you do visit businesses at the airport, it may be useful to download the HOI app for android users or the HOI app for Apple users- a tool to enable easy navigation and contactless payments.
Are there any special guidelines or other information that travelers should be aware of?
Travelers at Indira Gandhi International Airport should be aware that queue handlers have been employed to assist visitors, so expect guidance regarding where to stand and social distancing. Filling out the self reporting form is also essential. Take care when doing so as a mistake could lead to rejection and the need to quarantine for up to two weeks.
Are there any links to government websites for travelers to consult?
The Indira Gandhi International Airport website includes a comprehensive FAQ detailing how to fill out the necessary forms and access PCR tests, so that's a very useful resource to bookmark when flying to India with BudgetAir.com. Additionally, it makes sense to stay informed about Indian government guidelines and restrictions for the most updated information to check before your departure.