Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport (IGI) is one of the busiest airports in India, and Terminal 3 (T3) handles a massive volume of domestic and international passengers every day. For anyone heading to the airport, understanding the T3 Departure Road can make the difference between a calm drop-off and a last-minute rush.
This guide covers everything you need to know about the T3 Departure Road—routes, timings, traffic tips, parking rules, and smart travel hacks—so your airport drop-off is smooth and stress-free.
What Is T3 Departure Road?
The T3 Departure Road is the dedicated access road that leads vehicles to the departure level of Terminal 3 at IGI Airport. It is designed mainly for:
Passenger drop-offs
App-based cabs and taxis
Private vehicles
This road directly connects you to the departure gates, allowing passengers to get down close to airline check-in counters.
How to Reach T3 Departure Road
Reaching the T3 Departure Road is fairly straightforward if you follow the correct approach routes.
From Central & South Delhi
Use NH-48 (Delhi–Gurgaon Expressway)
Follow signs for IGI Airport / Terminal 3
Stay in the right lane as you approach the airport complex
From Gurgaon
Enter Delhi via NH-48
Take the airport exit marked Terminal 3
Follow overhead signage carefully to avoid reaching the arrival level
From East Delhi & Noida
Use Ring Road or Outer Ring Road
Connect to NH-48
Follow airport direction boards for T3 Departure
Clear signboards are placed well in advance, but staying alert is important because wrong lanes can lead to arrivals or parking loops.
Best Time for a Smooth Drop-Off
Timing plays a huge role on the T3 Departure Road.
Peak Hours
Morning: 6:00 AM – 9:00 AM
Evening/Night: 6:00 PM – 11:00 PM
During these hours, traffic congestion is common due to:
Multiple international departures
Office-hour travel
Festival or holiday rush
Off-Peak Hours
Late night (after midnight)
Early afternoon (12 PM – 4 PM)
If possible, plan your drop-off during off-peak hours for a faster entry and exit.
Drop-Off Rules You Must Know
To keep traffic flowing smoothly, airport authorities strictly enforce drop-off rules on the T3 Departure Road.
No long waiting or parking on the departure curb
Vehicles must drop passengers and move immediately
Security personnel may ask drivers to leave if they stop too long
Repeated violations can result in fines or restricted entry
💡 Tip: Keep luggage ready and say your goodbyes before reaching the terminal curb.
Parking Options Near T3
If you need more time to assist a passenger, parking is the better choice.
Short-Term Parking
Ideal for quick check-in help
Located close to T3
Charges apply on an hourly basis
Long-Term Parking
Suitable for extended stays
Shuttle services may be available
More economical for longer durations
Avoid stopping on the T3 Departure Road if your plan involves waiting.
Taxi, Cab & App-Based Ride Tips
Inform the driver clearly: “T3 Departure, not Arrival”
Double-check the route on Google Maps
During peak hours, expect slow movement near the final approach
App-based cabs usually have good knowledge of lane discipline, but reminders help
Common Mistakes to Avoid
Many travelers face delays due to simple errors:
Entering the arrival road instead of departure
Stopping too long at the curb
Reaching too close to flight time during peak hours
Ignoring lane signage at the airport entry
A little preparation saves a lot of stress.
Useful Travel Tips for Passengers
Reach the airport at least 3 hours before international flights
For domestic flights, 2 hours is usually safe
Keep ID and boarding pass easily accessible
If traffic looks heavy, consider Metro (Airport Express Line) to T3
Final Thoughts
The T3 Departure Road is well-planned but extremely busy, especially during peak travel hours. Knowing the correct route, following drop-off rules, and choosing the right time can ensure a smooth and hassle-free airport experience.
Whether you’re a frequent flyer or traveling for the first time, this T3 Departure Road Travel Guide will help you avoid confusion, save time, and start your journey on the right note.