Delhi Airport User Fee (UDF):
Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL), operated by GMR Airports, has received approval from India’s Airport Economic Regulatory Authority (AERA) to increase the User Development Fee (UDF) at Delhi Airport. The UDF is a charge collected from passengers, which is included in the ticket price. This fee is used for airport development and maintenance.
A Step Towards a Better Airport
The UDF is applicable to both domestic and international passengers. Airlines collect this fee from passengers along with the ticket cost and pay it to the airport operator. This helps in providing better facilities and services to passengers at the airport.
AERA has approved a Variable Tariff Plan for Delhi Airport and also increased the aeronautical tariff. The new rates will come into effect from April 16, 2025.
No Change in UDF for Domestic Flights
According to AERA, domestic passengers make up 80% of the total passengers at Delhi Airport. Therefore, the UDF for domestic travelers will remain unchanged for the fourth control period ending on March 31, 2029.
- Departure Fee for Domestic Flights: ₹129
- Arrival Fee for Domestic Flights: ₹56
Higher UDF for International Flights
Passengers traveling on international flights from Delhi Airport will now have to pay a higher UDF based on their travel class:
- Economy Class:
- Departure Fee: ₹650
- Arrival Fee: ₹275
- Business Class:
- Departure Fee: ₹810
- Arrival Fee: ₹345
Additionally, the landing charges at Delhi Airport will now depend on the size of the aircraft.
DIAL’s Original Proposal vs. AERA’s Approval
Initially, DIAL had proposed a 730% increase in the UDF, but AERA only approved a 140% increase.
With this new UDF hike, traveling internationally from Delhi Airport is set to become more expensive. However, the fee increase aims to improve airport facilities and provide better services to passengers.
