Delhi Airport Canopy Collapse: Minister Assures Refunds, Fare Stability

The Delhi International Airport Limited (DIAL) announced on Saturday that operations at Terminal 1 will be suspended until further notice following a tragic Delhi Airport Canopy collapse that resulted in one death and six injuries. Terminal 1, which primarily serves domestic flights for airlines IndiGo and SpiceJet, has temporarily moved its operations to Terminals 2 and 3. The airport, handling around 1,400 flights daily, stated that flight operations at Terminals 2 and 3 continue to run smoothly.

In the latest notification, Delhi Airport clarified, “Flight operations at Delhi Airport are normal and operating from Terminal 2 & 3 only. All flights from Terminal-1 have been shifted to Terminal-3 and Terminal-2.”

The incident occurred amid heavy rainfall on Friday morning, when a canopy at Terminal 1’s departure area collapsed around 5 am. The collapse not only caused injuries and loss of life but also damaged cars in the pick-up and drop areas. Central Reserve Police Force (CRPF) personnel promptly alerted local police and the fire department.

Union Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu Kinjarapu responded swiftly, announcing an investigation and immediate measures to prevent future incidents. The minister assured that passengers affected by the cancellations will receive refunds or alternative flights. Airlines have been directed to process refunds within seven days and refrain from increasing airfares. “War rooms have been established at Terminals 2 and 3 to monitor the situation and assist passengers,” the minister added. A special team from IIT Delhi’s structural department has been tasked with conducting an initial inspection and providing recommendations for necessary actions.

The Delhi Airport authorities have also announced compensation of Rs. 20 lakh to the family of the deceased and Rs. 3 lakh each to those injured. “Delhi Airport is extending all support to the families of the individuals. We have announced a compensation of Rs. 20 lakh to the family of the deceased, and Rs. 3 lakh each to those injured,” read a statement from Delhi Airport on social media platform X.