The Airport Express Line in Delhi has undergone a major upgrade, allowing customers to travel faster. The line, which connects New Delhi with Dwarka Sec-21 through the Indira Gandhi International Airport, now travels at a speed of 110 kmph instead of 100 kmph. The Delhi Metro Rail Corporation (DMRC) stated that this speed improvement sets a new benchmark for metro systems in India.

As a result of the renovation, the travel time between the two terminal stations has been reduced by four minutes to just under 19 minutes. It now takes 15 minutes to reach Shivaji Stadium from the airport, and 16 minutes to reach the airport from New Delhi. Officials have reported that the airport is now much closer to Rajiv Chowk, which can be reached in 15 minutes due to this speed enhancement. The DMRC plans to further increase the speed to 120 kmph, and eventually 132 kmph on this route.

In March, the operational speed was increased from 90 kmph to 100 kmph after obtaining the necessary approvals from the Commissioner of Metro Rail Safety (CMRS). Additionally, the DMRC has introduced passenger-friendly measures such as quick and cashless ticketing options through QR codes and WhatsApp-based ticketing, eliminating the need for visitors, especially those arriving from abroad, to go to ticket counters and wait in line.

WhatsApp has introduced a convenient feature that simplifies the process of purchasing metro tickets. However, it’s important to note that this service is currently in its experimental phase, and therefore, ticket booking is limited to specific stations as part of a pilot project. Presently, commuters can utilize this facility at stations like New Delhi, Shivaji Stadium, Dhaula Kaun, Delhi Aerocity, IGI Airport, and Dwarka Sector 21. Nevertheless, the good news is that additional stations are anticipated to be included soon, expanding the availability of this service to more destinations.