:Chennai International Airport

{{Short description|Airport in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India}}

{{redirect|Chennai Airport|the planned new airport|Chennai Greenfield Airport}}

{{good article}}

{{Use Indian English|date=April 2025}}

{{Use dmy dates|date=April 2025}}

{{Infobox airport

| name = Chennai International Airport

| image = Chennai International Airport Logo.png

| image-width = 150

| image2 = Chennai airport view 3.jpeg

| IATA = MAA

| ICAO = VOMM

| WMO =

| type = Public

| owner = Ministry of Civil Aviation

| operator = Airports Authority of India

| city-served = Chennai metropolitan area

| location = Tirusulam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India

| opened = {{start date and age|1930|||df=yes}}

| hub = Blue Dart Aviation

| focus_city = Air India

| operating_base = IndiGo{{cite press release|url=https://www.goindigo.in/press-releases/indigo-s-expansive-network-bridges-distances-within-india.html|title=IndiGo's expansive network bridges distances within India|date=19 October 2023|access-date=1 December 2023|publisher=IndiGo|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615105540/https://www.goindigo.in/press-releases/indigo-s-expansive-network-bridges-distances-within-india.html|url-status=live}}

| elevation-f = 52

| elevation-m = 16

| metric-elev = yes

| coordinates = {{coord|12|58|56|N|80|9|49|E|region:IN-TN|display=it}}

| website = {{nowrap|{{URL|www.chennaiinternationalairport.com}}}}

| pushpin_map = India Chennai#India Tamil Nadu#India

| pushpin_label = MAA

| pushpin_map_caption = Location of airport in Chennai

| r1-number = 07/25

| r1-length-f =

| r1-length-m = 3,661

| r1-surface = Asphalt

| r2-number = 12/30

| r2-length-m = 2,890

| r2-length-f =

| r2-surface = Asphalt

| metric-rwy = yes

| stat1-header = Passengers

| stat1-data = 22,411,290 ({{increase}} 5.7%)

| stat2-header = Aircraft movements

| stat2-data = 156,126 ({{increase}} 7.1%)

| stat3-header = Cargo tonnage

| stat3-data = 379,154 ({{increase}} 11.3%)

| stat-year = April 2024 – March 2025

| footnotes = Source: AAI{{cite web|title=Annexure III – Passenger Data|url=https://www.aai.aero/sites/default/files/traffic-news/Mar2k25Annex3.pdf|website=aai.aero|access-date=26 April 2025}}{{cite web|title=Annexure II – Aircraft Movement Data|url=https://www.aai.aero/sites/default/files/traffic-news/Mar2k25Annex2.pdf|website=aai.aero|access-date=26 April 2025}}{{cite web|title=Annexure IV – Freight Movement Data|url=https://www.aai.aero/sites/default/files/traffic-news/Mar2k25Annex4.pdf|website=aai.aero|access-date=26 April 2025}}

}}

Chennai International Airport {{airport codes|MAA|VOMM}} is an international airport serving the city of Chennai, the capital of Tamil Nadu, India. It is located in Tirusulam in Chengalpattu district, in the Greater Chennai Metropolitan Area around {{cvt|21|km}} southwest of the city centre. The first air service was operated in 1915 and the airport was commissioned in 1930. The airport serves as the southern regional headquarters of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for South India comprising the states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, Telangana, and the union territories of Lakshadweep, and Puducherry.

The airport is the fifth-busiest airport in India by passenger traffic and aircraft movements, and fourth-busiest by cargo handled in India and international traffic. In the financial year 2024–25, the airport handled over 22 million passengers and 0.37 million tonnes of cargo. The airport has two asphalt runways and offers direct flights to three continents. Terminals 1 and 4 handle domestic traffic and Terminal 2, which is being expanded to replace the older Terminal 3, handles international operation. A new satellite terminal is also under construction. A dedicated air cargo complex operates out of the old passenger terminal at Meenambakkam. The airport serves as a hub for Blue Dart Aviation, a focus city for Air India, and an operating base for IndiGo.

The airport is expected to reach saturation by 2035, with a peak capacity of 40 million passengers; a new greenfield airport has been proposed to supplement it. The airport is served by the Chennai International Airport Metro Station of the Chennai Metro and the Tirusulam railway station of the Chennai Suburban Railway.

History

= Beginning and establishment =

File:D'Angelis biplane 1910 designed and built, by G. d'Angelis.jpg and his biplane in 1910 during the first flight in the city]]

The aviation history of the city began in 1910, when a city-based Corsican hotelier Giacomo D'Angelis built a biplane powered by a small engine in association with Simpson's, a leading coach-builder in the city.{{cite news|last=Muthiah|first=S.|title=The magnificent men in Madras|date=1 December 2003|url=http://www.hindu.com/mp/2003/12/01/stories/2003120100050300.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20040103133744/http://www.hindu.com/mp/2003/12/01/stories/2003120100050300.htm|archive-date=3 January 2004|newspaper=The Hindu|access-date=25 December 2012}}{{cite web|title=Giacomo D'Angelis, first to fly in Asia (Madras 10 March 1910)|publisher=Our Media|url=https://archive.org/details/GiacomoDangelisFirstToFlyInAsiaMadras10March1910|access-date=25 December 2012}} He tested it at Island Grounds at Madras, making it the first powered flight in Asia.{{cite report|url=https://static.mygov.in/indiancc/2021/05/mygov-10000000001960522275.pdf|title=History of Indian Air Force|publisher=Government of India|page=2|access-date=1 December 2023|archive-date=8 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231208172949/https://static.mygov.in/indiancc/2021/05/mygov-10000000001960522275.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last=Muthiah|first=S.|title=Madras Miscellany|newspaper=The Hindu|date=22 August 2010|url=https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/history-and-culture/Madras-Miscellany/article12572738.ece|access-date=25 December 2012|archive-date=27 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027165249/https://www.thehindu.com/features/friday-review/history-and-culture/Madras-Miscellany/article12572738.ece|url-status=live}} Further flying displays were performed by a set of aviators including Baron de Caters and Jules Tyck in February 1911.{{cite web|last=Bhargava|first=Kapil|title=Beginning of Aviation in India—A peep into its early history|publisher=bharat-rakshak.com|url=http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/History/Aircraft/AviationIndia.pdf|access-date=25 December 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120227142219/http://www.bharat-rakshak.com/IAF/History/Aircraft/AviationIndia.pdf|archive-date=27 February 2012}} J. W. Madley, a water works engineer with the Madras government, flew an aircraft he had assembled over the Red Hills reservoir and shot aerial photographs in 1914.{{cite news|last=Sekar|first=Sunitha|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/soaring-the-skies-from-the-land-that-once-served-as-gateway-of-south/article67218759.ece|title=Soaring the skies from the land that once served as gateway of south|newspaper=The Hindu|date=21 August 2023|access-date=1 December 2023|archive-date=25 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230825114621/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/soaring-the-skies-from-the-land-that-once-served-as-gateway-of-south/article67218759.ece|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last=Mathai|first=Kamini|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/when-an-italian-took-india-to-the-skies/articleshow/70708216.cms|title=When an Italian took India to the skies|newspaper=The Times of India|date=17 August 2019|access-date=25 December 2022|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620120035/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/when-an-italian-took-india-to-the-skies/articleshow/70708216.cms|url-status=live}}

File:Tata Sons' Airline Timetable Image, Summer 1935 (interior).jpg

In 1915, Tata Air Mail started an airmail service between Karachi and Madras, marking the beginning of civil aviation in South India.{{cite web|url=https://pib.gov.in/newsite/erelcontent.aspx?relid=69345|title=100 years of civil aviation|publisher=Government of India|access-date=1 December 2023|archive-date=26 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231226224125/https://pib.gov.in/newsite/erelcontent.aspx?relid=69345|url-status=live}} A discussion initiated by pilot G. Vlasto led to the founding of Madras Flying Club in March 1930.{{cite book|title=Indian Aviation|year=1952|first=R.L.|last=Saraogi|page=192}}{{cite news|last=Janardanan|first=Arun|title=Madras Flying Club: High on quality|work=The Times of India|date=14 June 2011|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/madras-flying-club-high-on-quality/articleshow/8842647.cms|access-date=25 December 2022|archive-date=1 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230901172935/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/madras-flying-club-high-on-quality/articleshow/8842647.cms|url-status=live}} The first instructional flight took off from the airstrip in July 1930.{{cite web|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2009/Sep/07/turbulence-at-madras-flying-club-84051.html|title=Turbulence at Madras flying club|date=7 September 2009|access-date=1 June 2024|work=The Indian Express}}

Commissioned in 1930, Madras aerodrome was one of the first airports of India.{{cite web|last=Thimmayya|first=Daniel|title=Madras Flying Club on a Wing and Prayer|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2014/May/19/madras-flying-club-on-a-wing-and-prayer-614623.html|newspaper=The New Indian Express|date=19 May 2014|access-date=3 December 2023|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615105539/https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2014/May/19/madras-flying-club-on-a-wing-and-prayer-614623.html|url-status=live}} On 15 October 1932, J. R. D. Tata flew a Puss Moth aircraft carrying air mail from Karachi to Bombay's Juhu Airstrip. Piloted by aviator Nevill Vintcent, it continued to Madras and became the first scheduled flight to land at the airport.{{cite book|title=Britain's Imperial Air Routes, 1918 to 1939|last=Higham|first=Robin|page=168|publisher=Shoe String Press|year=1961|isbn=978-0-208-00171-9}}{{cite report|title=De Havilland Gazette|year=1953|page=103|publisher=De Havilland Aircraft Company}} The first mail service to Colombo was operated by Tata in 1936, with regular mail and passenger service commencing later in 1938.{{cite web|url=http://www.stamps.gov.lk/airmail.php|title=Air Mail in Sri Lanka|work=Government of Sri Lanka|access-date=1 June 2024}} Although commercial services came into operation earlier, the airport was confined mostly to military operations during World War II, when it became the base of Royal Indian Air Force.{{cite web|title=About Chennai International Airport|publisher=Airports Authority of India|url=http://www.airportsindia.org.in/chennai/aboutus.jsp|access-date =13 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120503161205/http://www.airportsindia.org.in/chennai/aboutus.jsp|archive-date=3 May 2012}}{{cite book|last1=Lake|first1=A|title=Flying units of the RAF|year=1999|publisher=Airlife|location=Shrewsbury|isbn=978-1-840-37086-7|page=49}}

= Expansion =

Image:Meenambakkam airport.jpg

In 1952, the Civil Aviation Department took over the operations of the airport. The first passenger terminal was built in 1954 on the northeastern side of Meenambakkam, and the airport operated as a customs airport with limited international services.{{cite book|title=World Trade Information Service|year=1955|publisher=U.S. Department of Commerce, Bureau of Foreign Commerce|page=6}}{{cite report|title=The Heritage of Chennai Customs|url=https://chennaicustoms.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Sunkam-The-Heritage-of-Chennai-Customs.pdf|publisher=Department of Customs|access-date=1 June 2024|pages=107–109|archive-date=9 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230609050256/https://chennaicustoms.gov.in/wp-content/uploads/2021/12/Sunkam-The-Heritage-of-Chennai-Customs.pdf|url-status=live}} In 1972, the airport came under the purview of Airports Authority of India (AAI). An air cargo complex was commissioned on 1 February 1978, which was the second gateway air cargo terminal in the country, after Kolkata airport.{{cite web|title=Airport Audit, Commercial & Cargo|publisher=Airports Authority of India|url=http://www.aai.aero/services/airport_audit_commercial_cargo.jsp|access-date=5 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130117022555/http://www.aai.aero/services/airport_audit_commercial_cargo.jsp|archive-date=17 January 2013}} In August 1984, a bomb blast near the airport killed 33 people and injured 27 others.{{cite news|title=Eelam Army chief held for Chennai blast|newspaper=The Indian Express|date=8 February 1998|url=http://www.expressindia.com/news/ie/daily/19980208/03950624.html|access-date=11 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20091007133247/http://www.expressindia.com/news/ie/daily/19980208/03950624.html|archive-date=7 October 2009}} The entire concourse was razed down and had to be rebuilt.{{cite news|title=Airport blast: HC sets aside life term for five|location=Chennai|date=3 May 2000|url=http://www.hindu.com/2000/05/03/stories/0203000t.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121111022606/http://hindu.com/2000/05/03/stories/0203000t.htm|archive-date=11 November 2012|newspaper=The Hindu|access-date=11 January 2012}} The passenger operations were shifted to the new domestic terminal built at Tirusulam in 1985. An international terminal was added in 1989 and the old terminal building was used for air cargo.

File:Flughafen chennai domestic terminal.jpg

In November 1988, British Airways commenced services to Europe, flying to London's Heathrow Airport with Boeing 747s from April 1991.{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/british-airways-and-chennai-a-30-year-old-connection/article25638186.ece|title=British Airways and Chennai: a 30-year-old connection|newspaper=The Hindu|date=1 December 2018|access-date=4 January 2022|last=Krishnaswamy|first=Murali|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620120021/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/british-airways-and-chennai-a-30-year-old-connection/article25638186.ece|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=The Madras experience|work=The Sunday Telegraph|date=2 October 1988|url=https://www.newspapers.com/clip/111602384/sunday-telegraph/|access-date=1 June 2023|archive-date=19 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221019162006/https://www.newspapers.com/clip/111602384/sunday-telegraph/|url-status=live}}{{cite journal|title=Speech at the inauguration of British Airways non-stop flight between Madras and London on 2nd April 1991|journal=Addresses of Dr. Bhishma Narain Singh, Governor of Tamil Nadu|year=1993|volume=1|pages=97–99}} On 23 September 1999, a handling centre for flowers, fruits and vegetables was commissioned at the air cargo terminal. In 2001, the international airport became the first in the country to receive the ISO 9001-2000 certification.{{cite web|title=Chennai Airport|publisher=Indian Logistics Info|url=http://www.indianlogisticsinfo.com/indian_aviation/chennai_airport.html|access-date=20 December 2012|archive-date=3 November 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121103164528/http://www.indianlogisticsinfo.com/indian_aviation/chennai_airport.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=ISO 9001-2000 for Chennai airport|newspaper=Business Line|date=27 August 2001|url=http://www.hindu.com/businessline/2001/08/27/stories/142704xs.htm|access-date=20 December 2012|archive-date=2 December 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121202091043/http://www.hindu.com/businessline/2001/08/27/stories/142704xs.htm}}{{cite web|title=Certification Awarded to Airports Authority of India|publisher=Airports Authority of India|url=http://www.aai.aero/allAirports/Chennai_ISO.pdf|access-date=5 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130723031010/http://www.aai.aero/allAirports/Chennai_ISO.pdf|archive-date=23 July 2013}} A new international departure terminal was commissioned in 2003. In May 2005, Delta Air Lines commenced the first direct flights to the Americas, connecting Chennai with New York City via Paris.{{cite news|url=http://www.hindu.com/2006/06/30/stories/2006063016800500.htm|title=Delta to discontinue Chennai flights|newspaper=The Hindu|date=30 June 2006|access-date=28 August 2022|last=Shankar|first=T. S.|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080220151547/http://www.hindu.com/2006/06/30/stories/2006063016800500.htm|archive-date=20 February 2008}}{{cite news|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/delta-air-lines-to-start-chennai-ny-direct-service-from-may-2005-104121601083_1.html|title=Delta Air Lines to start Chennai-NY direct service from May 2005|newspaper=Business Standard|location=India|date=16 December 2004|access-date=28 August 2022|archive-date=28 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220828171305/https://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/delta-air-lines-to-start-chennai-ny-direct-service-from-may-2005-104121601083_1.html|url-status=live}}

In 2008, the AAI started a major modernisation project.{{cite web|title=Domestic Projects|publisher=Airports Authority of India|url=http://www.aai.aero/services/domestic_projects.jsp|access-date=5 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130117021349/http://www.aai.aero/services/domestic_projects.jsp|archive-date=17 January 2013}} Two new terminals (Terminal 1 and 4) were constructed, the existing international terminal (Terminal 3) was renovated, the secondary runway was extended, and new taxiways, parking bays and a fire station were constructed.{{cite news|last=Sekar|first=Sunitha|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/chennai-airport-expansion-yet-to-achieve-goals/article5563323.ece|title=Chennai airport expansion yet to achieve goals|date=13 May 2016|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=The Hindu|archive-date=14 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240614093933/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/chennai-airport-expansion-yet-to-achieve-goals/article5563323.ece|url-status=live}}

= 2015 floods and later modernisation =

File:Chennai Airport submerged during December 2015 Tamil Nadu flood.jpg

In December 2015, unprecedented rainfall associated with India's North-east monsoon caused extensive flooding of the airport tarmac and runways. The airport was closed for a week to all traffic from 1 to 6 December. About 1,500 passengers and 2,000 airport workers were evacuated as water entered terminal buildings and 30–35 aircraft were stranded on the apron.{{cite news|url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/chennai-airport-closed-until-noon-on-sunday/articleshow/50015008.cms|title=Chennai airport closed until noon on Sunday|work=The Economic Times|access-date=2 December 2015|archive-date=5 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151205053613/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/chennai-airport-closed-until-noon-on-sunday/articleshow/50015008.cms|url-status=live}} Military authorities permitted the use of Naval Air Station INS Rajali in Arakkonam, {{cvt|70|km}} west of central Chennai and Tambaram Air Force Station {{cvt|20|km}} south as relief airports for a limited service of civilian commercial flights as well as official rescue/assistance flights.{{cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/With-Chennai-marooned-naval-base-to-act-as-civilian-airport/articleshow/50016359.cms|title=Naval Base to act as civilian airport|newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=3 December 2015|archive-date=4 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151204155637/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/With-Chennai-marooned-naval-base-to-act-as-civilian-airport/articleshow/50016359.cms|url-status=live}} The Indian Air Force evacuated passengers from Chennai airport to the two military bases for onward journeys on Air Force transport aircraft to other domestic destinations.{{cite news|url=http://www.thestatesman.com/news/india/iaf-to-evacuate-stranded-passengers-from-chennai-airport/108131.html|title=IAF to evacuate stranded passengers from Chennai airport|work=The Statesman|access-date=3 December 2015|archive-date=9 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151209002200/http://www.thestatesman.com/news/india/iaf-to-evacuate-stranded-passengers-from-chennai-airport/108131.html|url-status=live}} On 5 December, the Directorate General of Civil Aviation permitted a partial re-opening of the airport during daylight hours under visual meteorological conditions only, allowing airlines to ferry stranded aircraft without passengers or cargo on board. Operations under instrument meteorological conditions were not permitted and rescue and assistance flights, were permitted to operate in and out of the airport from 6 December.{{cite news|url=http://zeenews.india.com/news/tamil-nadu/chennai-airport-to-be-made-operational-in-rain-battered-tamil-nadu-today_1830724.html|title=Chennai airport to be made operational today|publisher=Zee News India|access-date=5 December 2015|archive-date=7 December 2015|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20151207100653/http://zeenews.india.com/news/tamil-nadu/chennai-airport-to-be-made-operational-in-rain-battered-tamil-nadu-today_1830724.html|url-status=live}}

In 2018, the construction of a new integrated terminal (Terminal 2) to expand the capacity began and the flight operations started from the new terminal on 7 July 2023.{{cite news|url=https://www.news18.com/auto/chennai-airport-new-integrated-terminal-building-nitb-welcomes-all-international-passengers-after-successful-relocation-8310355.html|title=Chennai Airport: International Flights Relocated to New Integrated Terminal Building (NITB)|date=20 July 2023|access-date=1 June 2024|publisher=News18|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111145931/https://www.news18.com/auto/chennai-airport-new-integrated-terminal-building-nitb-welcomes-all-international-passengers-after-successful-relocation-8310355.html|url-status=live}}

Accidents and incidents

  • On 7 January 1974, an Antonov AN-12 of the Indian Air Force crashed on take-off at the airport due to engine failure. There were no fatalities but the aircraft was damaged beyond recovery.
  • On 26 April 1979, a Boeing 737-200 operated by Indian Airlines (registration VT-ECR) from Trivandrum had a mid-air explosion during descent. The aircraft crash landed more than {{cvt|2500|ft}} beyond the runway threshold. There were 14 injuries and no fatalities but the aircraft was destroyed due to subsequent fire.{{cite web|url=https://asn.flightsafety.org/wikibase/328618|title=Accident details VT-ECR|publisher=Aircraft Safety Network|access-date=1 December 2023}}
  • On 29 September 1986, Indian Airlines flight IC 571, an Airbus A300 (registration VT-ELV), on a flight from Madras to Mumbai, aborted take-off due to a bird-strike and suffered a runway excursion. No fatalities were reported but the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.{{cite web|url=https://www.baaa-acro.com/city/chennai|title=Accidents at Chennai|publisher=Bureau of Aircraft accidents|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=14 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240614175622/https://www.baaa-acro.com/city/chennai|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://asn.flightsafety.org/asndb/326930|title=Accident details VT-ELV|publisher=Aircraft Safety Network|access-date=1 December 2023}}
  • On 5 March 1999, Air France flight 6745, an ex-UTA Boeing 747-2B3F freighter (registration F-GPAN) from Paris crash-landed and caught fire. The five crew members were rescued by the airport fire service, before the aircraft burned out.{{cite web|title=ASN Aircraft accident Boeing 747-2B3F (SCD) F-GPAN Chennai Airport (MAA)|publisher=Aviation Safety Network|url=http://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=19990305-0|access-date=11 January 2012|archive-date=14 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120114045709/http://aviation-safety.net/database/record.php?id=19990305-0|url-status=live}}
  • On 15 June 2007, a British Aerospace ATP freighter (registration VT-FFB) operated by First Flight Couriers crash landed at the airport due to landing gear collapse and the aircraft was damaged beyond repair.{{cite web|url=https://asn.flightsafety.org/asndb/321946|title=Accident details VT-FFB|publisher=Aircraft Safety Network|access-date=1 December 2023}}

Administration

File:SpiceJet Boeing 737-8GJ Vyas.jpg

Chennai Airport is owned and operated by the Airports Authority of India and serves as the regional headquarters of the AAI for the southern region of India comprising the states of Andhra Pradesh, Karnataka, Kerala, Tamil Nadu, and Telangana, and the union territories of Lakshadweep, and Puducherry.{{cite web|title=Regional Headquarters|publisher=Airports Authority of India|url=http://www.aai.aero/public_notices/aaisite_test/rhq.jsp|access-date=30 December 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121227130723/http://www.aai.aero/public_notices/aaisite_test/rhq.jsp|archive-date=27 December 2012}}{{cite web|url=https://www.aai.aero/en/node/8852|title=Southern Regional Headquarters|publisher=Airports Authority of India|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=6 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230406103719/https://www.aai.aero/en/node/8852|url-status=live}}{{cite press release|url=https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1573664|title=R. Madhavan takes over New Regional Executive Director of AAIdate=7 June 2019|publisher=Government of India|access-date=28 December 2021|archive-date=28 December 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211228151105/https://pib.gov.in/PressReleasePage.aspx?PRID=1573664|url-status=live}} It functions from the Air Traffic Control Complex within the airport.{{cite web|url=https://nocas2.aai.aero/nocas/AAI_Links/Contact.pdf|title=Contact details of Regional Headquarters|publisher=Airports Authority of India|access-date=1 December 2023|archive-date=8 December 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231208101251/https://nocas2.aai.aero/nocas/AAI_Links/Contact.pdf|url-status=live}} The airport is the centre of the southern flight information region (FIR), one of the four FIRs that the Indian air space is divided into. It is alo responsible for the air traffic services over the Chennai FIR, which consist of five southern states, two southern union territories, and oceanic air space over parts of the Bay of Bengal and the Arabian Sea.{{cite web|url=https://camd.imd.gov.in/fir.php|title=Flight information region map|publisher=Government of India|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=14 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240614100313/https://camd.imd.gov.in/fir.php|url-status=live}}

The immigration services at the airport are handled by the Bureau of Immigration of the Ministry of Home Affairs.{{cite web|title=About us, Bureau of Immigration|publisher=Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India|url=https://boi.gov.in/boi/public/content/pages/59c2581f-6da2-4364-9d1e-03d436d39b6b|access-date=5 January 2023|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620120158/https://boi.gov.in/boi/public/content/pages/59c2581f-6da2-4364-9d1e-03d436d39b6b|url-status=live}} The airport is the home to the southern regional office of the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS), which is responsible for the security of flights.{{cite web|title=Organization Setup|publisher=Ministry of Civil Aviation, Government of India|url=https://www.civilaviation.gov.in/en/aboutus/orgsetup|access-date=29 December 2021|archive-date=18 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221218080250/https://www.civilaviation.gov.in/en/aboutus/orgsetup}} The Airport Sector (CISF) provides security, including a dog squad for identification of narcotics and bomb disposal.{{cite news|last1=Kannan|first1=Sindhu|title=Two CISF dogs retire, 3 new inducted in Chennai|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/two-cisf-dogs-retire-3-new-inducted-in-chennai/articleshow/85505721.cms|newspaper=The Times of India|date=21 August 2021|access-date=21 August 2021|archive-date=21 August 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210821084314/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/two-cisf-dogs-retire-3-new-inducted-in-chennai/articleshow/85505721.cms|url-status=live}}{{cite report|url=https://www.mha.gov.in/sites/default/files/Citi_Chart111208.pdf|title=Citizens charter, CISF|publisher=Ministry of Home Affairs, Government of India|access-date=1 June 2023|archive-date=4 April 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220404143106/https://www.mha.gov.in/sites/default/files/Citi_Chart111208.pdf|url-status=live}}

In 2013, the Government of India proposed to offer a contract to a private operator to operate the airport, which the AAI invited bids for.{{cite news|title=Nine firms take part in Chennai airport familiarisation trip: AAI|newspaper=Business Standard|location=Chennai|date=10 October 2013|url=http://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/nine-firms-take-part-in-chennai-airport-familiarisation-trip-aai-113100900801_1.html|access-date=12 October 2013|archive-date=9 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131009201954/http://www.business-standard.com/article/companies/nine-firms-take-part-in-chennai-airport-familiarisation-trip-aai-113100900801_1.html|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Chennai, Lucknow airports privatisation: Tata, foreign firms participate in pre-bid meeting|newspaper=The Economic Times|date=22 September 2013|url=http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2013-09-22/news/42292305_1_all-airports-aai-the-airports-authority|access-date=12 October 2013|archive-date=25 September 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130925165707/http://articles.economictimes.indiatimes.com/2013-09-22/news/42292305_1_all-airports-aai-the-airports-authority}} The plan did not materialise because airport employees, fearing job losses, protested against the move.{{cite news|title=AAI employees stand firm against Chennai airport privatisation|newspaper=The Hindu|date=8 October 2013|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/aai-employees-stand-firm-against-airport-privatisation/article5211153.ece|access-date=12 October 2013|archive-date=16 April 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140416175317/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/aai-employees-stand-firm-against-airport-privatisation/article5211153.ece|url-status=live }}

Facilities

= Runways =

File:ChennaiAirport.jpg

The airport has two runways – the {{cvt|3661|m}} long primary runway 07/25 (Northeast – Southwest orientation) and the {{cvt|2890|m}} long secondary runway 12/30 (Northwest – Southeast orientation).{{cite report|url=https://nocas2.aai.aero/nocas/AAI_Links/Airports-IFR-VFR-200815.pdf|title=Airports IFR-VFR list|publisher=Airports Authority of India|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=2 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231102073533/https://nocas2.aai.aero/nocas/AAI_Links/Airports-IFR-VFR-200815.pdf|url-status=live}} The runways are equipped with CAT-I Instrument Landing System (ILS) for IFR approach with Precision Approach Path Indicator (PAPI) landing aids.{{cite web|title=Technical Information|publisher=Airports Authority of India|url=http://www.aai.aero/allAirports/chennai_TECHNICAL.jsp|access-date=5 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20121109200718/http://www.aai.aero/allAirports/chennai_TECHNICAL.jsp|archive-date=9 November 2012}} An upgraded ILS was installed on runway 07/25 in 2017.{{cite news|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/new-instrument-landing-system-at-chennai-airport-commissioned-117110601425_1.html|title=New instrument landing system at Chennai airport commissioned|date=6 November 2017|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=Business Standard|location=India|archive-date=14 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240614110116/https://www.business-standard.com/article/pti-stories/new-instrument-landing-system-at-chennai-airport-commissioned-117110601425_1.html|url-status=live}} As the airport is not equipped with a CAT-III landing system, which will enable operations in poor visibility conditions, disruptions in flight operations happen in poor weather conditions.{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/ils-upgrades-are-needed-at-indian-airports-to-tackle-rough-weather-amidst-growing-air-traffic/article67909905.ece|title=ILS upgrades are needed at Indian airports to tackle rough weather amidst growing air traffic|date=3 March 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=The Hindu|archive-date=14 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240614110116/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/telangana/ils-upgrades-are-needed-at-indian-airports-to-tackle-rough-weather-amidst-growing-air-traffic/article67909905.ece|url-status=live}} In 2012, the AAI acquired additional land to install new landing lights and upgrade the ILS.{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/landing-to-get-safer-as-airport-gets-defence-land-to-install-runway-lights/articleshow/93062476.cms|title=Landing to get safer as Chennai airport gets defence land to install runway lights|date=23 June 2022|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=The Times of India|archive-date=14 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240614110527/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/landing-to-get-safer-as-airport-gets-defence-land-to-install-runway-lights/articleshow/93062476.cms|url-status=live}}

File:Runway at Chennai airport (4446062960).jpg

The secondary runway (12/30) was closed in 2009 to extend it over the Adyar River by means of a bridge over the watercourse at a cost of {{INRconvert|4300|m}}. The runway which was initially {{cvt|2035|m}} long was planned to be extended to {{cvt|3445|m}}.{{cite news|last=Ayyappan|first=V.|title=Work on runway across Adyar takes off|newspaper=The Times of India|date=29 January 2009|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/work-on-runway-across-adyar-takes-off/articleshow/4049884.cms|access-date=11 January 2023|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615113811/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/india/work-on-runway-across-adyar-takes-off/articleshow/4049884.cms|url-status=live}} The expansion was completed in March 2011.{{cite news|title=Runway across Adyar ready for day operation|newspaper=The Times of India|date=20 November 2011|url=http://epaper.timesofindia.com/Default/Scripting/ArticleWin.asp?From=Archive&Source=Page&Skin=TOINEW&BaseHref=TOICH/2011/11/20&PageLabel=4&EntityId=Ar00404&ViewMode=HTML|access-date=1 January 2012|archive-date=14 June 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130614024739/http://epaper.timesofindia.com/Default/Scripting/ArticleWin.asp?From=Archive&Source=Page&Skin=TOINEW&BaseHref=TOICH%2F2011%2F11%2F20&PageLabel=4&EntityId=Ar00404&ViewMode=HTML}} The bridge over the Adyar river accommodated the runway and a taxiway, making Chennai airport the first international airport in India to have a runway across a river.{{cite news|last=Ayyappan|first=V.|title=Runway over river to open in Nov|newspaper=The Times of India|date=15 October 2011|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/runway-over-river-to-open-in-nov/articleshow/10362259.cms|access-date=11 January 2023|archive-date=4 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230204104029/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Runway-over-river-to-open-in-Nov/articleshow/10362259.cms|url-status=live}} The commissioning was delayed due to work on landing lights and VOR antenna.{{cite news|title=Secondary runway run into hassles|newspaper=The New Indian Express|date=13 March 2012|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2012/Mar/12/secondary-runway-run-into-hassles-348087.html|access-date=6 January 2013}} In February 2012, airport authorities announced that only about {{cvt|2160|m}} of the secondary runway would be operational due to displacements at both ends and the runway which was earlier used by only smaller aircraft, would be able to accommodate narrow body aircraft.{{cite news|last=Sujatha|first=S.|title=Chennai airport: Second runway in the offing|newspaper=Deccan Chronicle|date=11 February 2012|url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/chennai/chennai-airport-second-runway-offing-985|access-date=11 February 2012|archive-date=12 February 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120212160542/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/chennai/chennai-airport-second-runway-offing-985}}

File:Flughafen chennai view from st thomas mount.jpg]]

The layout consists of a long taxiway (B) and a shorter taxiway (R) parallel to primary runway 07/25 and parallel taxiway (N) oriented along the secondary runway 12/30. Two taxiways (P and Q) linked the two runways. Apart from the primary taxiways, other secondary taxiways interconnect the runways, main taxiways and parking aprons.{{cite report|url=https://aim-india.aai.aero/sites/default/files/aip_supplements/AIPS_2020_203.pdf|title=Aerodrome data|publisher=Airports Authority of India|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620120024/https://aim-india.aai.aero/sites/default/files/aip_supplements/AIPS_2020_203.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last=Sekar|first=Sunitha|title=A new taxiway for Chennai airport|newspaper=The Hindu|date=3 March 2017|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/a-new-taxiway-for-chennai-airport/article17396912.ece|access-date=3 March 2017|archive-date=29 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200229012217/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/a-new-taxiway-for-chennai-airport/article17396912.ece|url-status=live}} In January 2018, the airport began cross-runway operations to reduce flight delays.{{cite news|last=Sekar|first=Sunitha|title=Cross-runway operations begin at city airport|newspaper=The Hindu|date=12 January 2018|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/cross-runway-operations-begin-at-city-airport/article22424253.ece|access-date=11 February 2018|archive-date=13 February 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180213034515/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/cross-runway-operations-begin-at-city-airport/article22424253.ece|url-status=live}} In May 2023, a rapid exit taxi way was added {{cvt|1831|m}} from the threshold on the primary runway 07 and another taxi way linking the main apron.{{cite news|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chennai/chennai-airport-opens-rapid-exit-taxiway-to-ease-flight-traffic-congestion-8617945/|title=Chennai airport opens rapid exit taxiway to ease flight traffic congestion|date=19 May 2023|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=The Indian Express|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620130526/https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chennai/chennai-airport-opens-rapid-exit-taxiway-to-ease-flight-traffic-congestion-8617945/|url-status=live}} This reduced the runway occupancy time and helped with the plan to increase in flight handling capacity from 36 to 45 flights per hour.{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/rapid-exit-and-link-taxiways-opened-at-chennai-airport/articleshow/100335559.cms|title=Rapid exit and link taxiways opened at Chennai airport|date=19 May 2023|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=The Times of India|archive-date=14 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240614142527/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/rapid-exit-and-link-taxiways-opened-at-chennai-airport/articleshow/100335559.cms|url-status=live}} In January 2024, AAI announced plans to construct 11 new rapid taxi-ways to improve aircraft handling.{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/aai-plans-massive-project-to-build-11-rapid-exit-taxiways-at-chennai-airport-at-a-cost-of-400-crore/article67789621.ece|title=AAI plans massive project to build 11 rapid exit taxiways at Chennai airport at a cost of ₹400 crore|newspaper=The Hindu|date=29 January 2024|access-date=1 May 2024|archive-date=14 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240614172810/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/aai-plans-massive-project-to-build-11-rapid-exit-taxiways-at-chennai-airport-at-a-cost-of-400-crore/article67789621.ece|url-status=live}}

= Passenger terminals =

The airport occupies an area of {{cvt|1301|acre}} with the passenger terminals located in Tirusulam in Kanchipuram district.{{cite report|url=https://environmentclearance.nic.in/writereaddata/modification/Amendment/Attach_file/041020189YI1PKBQEMP.pdf|title=Environmental clearance|publisher=Government of India|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620120525/https://environmentclearance.nic.in/writereaddata/modification/Amendment/Attach_file/041020189YI1PKBQEMP.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last=Madhavan|first=D.|title=Cantonment, AAI in row over airport expansion|newspaper=The Times of India|date=25 July 2011|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/cantonment-aai-in-row-over-airport-expansion/articleshow/9352987.cms|access-date=23 January 2022|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615113708/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/cantonment-aai-in-row-over-airport-expansion/articleshow/9352987.cms|url-status=live}} {{As of|2024}}, the airport consists of three operational passenger terminals with Terminals 1 and 4 catering to domestic traffic and Terminal 2 handling international traffic.{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/chennai-airports-t4-terminal-to-handle-domestic-flights-from-november-15/article67521280.ece|title=T4 terminal to handle domestic flights from November|newspaper=The Hindu|date=10 November 2023|access-date=1 May 2024|archive-date=14 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240614165348/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/chennai-airports-t4-terminal-to-handle-domestic-flights-from-november-15/article67521280.ece|url-status=live}} The power supply to the airport is provided by Tamil Nadu Generation and Distribution Corporation through a 11,000 kV sub-station.{{cite news|title=Sub-station holds key to new domestic terminal inauguration|newspaper=The Hindu|date=14 March 2012|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/article2992098.ece|access-date=6 January 2013|archive-date=7 July 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120707191152/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/article2992098.ece|url-status=live}}

File:Interior of Chennai International Airport in Chennai, Tamil Nadu 06.jpg

Terminals 1 and 4 have three levels with the departure area on the top level with an elevated corridor, which has approach and exit ramps.{{cite news|last=Sujatha|first=S.|title=New terminals likely by June next year|newspaper=Deccan Chronicle|date=23 December 2011|url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/chennai/new-terminals-likely-june-next-year-772|access-date=1 January 2012|archive-date=11 November 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181111001337/https://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/chennai/new-terminals-likely-june-next-year-772}} The arrivals section is on the ground level, which also serves as the base for airlines and other offices. The basement is used for luggage handling. Terminal 1, which can handle 16 million passengers per year, covers {{cvt|67700|m2}}, has seven gates, 52 check-in counters, and eight counters for e-ticketing.{{cite web|title=Designs unveiled for new terminals at Chennai Airport in India|publisher=World Interior Design Network|date=31 January 2011|url=http://www.worldinteriordesignnetwork.com/news/designs_unveiled_for_new_terminals_at_chennai_airport_in_india_110131/|access-date =1 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110908034118/http://www.worldinteriordesignnetwork.com/news/designs_unveiled_for_new_terminals_at_chennai_airport_in_india_110131/|archive-date=8 September 2011}}{{cite news|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2013/Jan/21/get-ready-for-a-brand-new-takeoff-444803.html|title=Get ready for a brand new takeoff!|date=21 January 2013|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=The New Indian Express|archive-date=14 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240614165347/https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2013/Jan/21/get-ready-for-a-brand-new-takeoff-444803.html|url-status=live}} Terminal 4 which was originally built to handle international operations, covers an area of {{cvt|59300|m2}} and is capable of handling 7 million passengers per year. Both the terminals are equipped with an in-line baggage handling system and security screening system with four departure conveyors of a length of {{cvt|3500|m}} and can handle 1,200 baggage pieces per hour. The terminals are designed with two sustainable gardens with wing-like roofs and glass facades. Rainwater is harvested and used to sustain the gardens.{{cite news|last1=Srivathsan|first1=A.|last2=Oppili|first2=P.|title=Architects for airport expansion|date=22 September 2008|url=http://www.hindu.com/2008/09/22/stories/2008092259881200.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20080925034652/http://www.hindu.com/2008/09/22/stories/2008092259881200.htm|archive-date=25 September 2008|newspaper=The Hindu|access-date=11 January 2012}}{{cite news|last=Mathews|first=Neelam|title=Chennai Airport to be India's Greenest|work=Architectural Record|date=28 August 2007|url=http://archrecord.construction.com/news/daily/archives/070828chennai.asp|access-date=1 January 2012|archive-date=16 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111016211725/http://archrecord.construction.com/news/daily/archives/070828chennai.asp|url-status=live}} There is {{cvt|9000|m2}} of space at the terminals, consisting of duty-free retail shops, restaurants, snack bars, and executive lounges.{{cite news|last=Kannan|first=Swetha|title=New-look Chennai airport to have nearly three times current retail space|newspaper=Business Line|date=9 December 2011|url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/logistics/article2701673.ece|access-date=1 January 2012|archive-date=9 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120109093930/http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/logistics/article2701673.ece|url-status=live}} There have been more than 65 incidents of false ceiling collapses and breakage of glass windows reported from the terminals over the years.{{cite news|title=Chennai Airport false ceiling collapse: airport police file FIR|newspaper=The Hindu|date=4 October 2013|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/chennai-airport-false-ceiling-collapse-airport-police-file-fir/article5197905.ece|access-date=12 October 2013|archive-date=5 October 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131005174536/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/chennai-airport-false-ceiling-collapse-airport-police-file-fir/article5197905.ece|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/1-more-glass-panel-shatters-at-airport-69-incidents-so-far/articleshow/66994260.cms|title=1 more glass panel shatters at airport; 69 incidents so far|date=8 December 2018|access-date=1 December 2023|newspaper=The Times of India|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620120544/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/1-more-glass-panel-shatters-at-airport-69-incidents-so-far/articleshow/66994260.cms|url-status=live}}

{{Multiple image

| align = right

| total_width = 350

| image1 = Interior of Chennai International Airport vrvbaan042k24 (36).jpg

| image2 = Interior of Chennai International Airport vrvbaan042k24 (41).jpg

| footer = Interior of Terminal 2 showing art decorations

|}}

As a part of expansion plan unveiled in 2018, a new integrated terminal and a satellite terminal were planned to increase the terminal area to {{cvt|160000|m2}} with a capacity of 35 million passengers, up from then existing capacity of 18 million.{{cite news|last=Sekar|first=Sunitha|title=Airport's Phase II expansion set to take off|newspaper=The Hindu|date=8 January 2018|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/airports-phase-ii-expansion-set-to-take-off/article22392935.ece|access-date=11 February 2018|archive-date=9 April 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180409114331/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/airports-phase-ii-expansion-set-to-take-off/article22392935.ece|url-status=live}} The satellite terminal near the secondary runway is connected to the main buildings by a {{cvt|1.5|km}} long tunnel built at a cost of {{INRconvert|7000|m}}.{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/satellite-terminal-between-two-runways-readying-for-take-off/articleshow/69258464.cms|title=Chennai: Satellite terminal between two runways readying for take-off|newspaper=The Times of India|date=10 May 2019|access-date=12 August 2019|archive-date=25 September 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190925192940/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/satellite-terminal-between-two-runways-readying-for-take-off/articleshow/69258464.cms|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last=Sekar|first=Sunitha|title=City airport to have tunnel to connect to satellite terminal|newspaper=The Hindu|date=10 January 2018|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/city-airport-to-have-tunnel-to-connect-to-satellite-terminal/article22407726.ece|access-date=11 February 2018|archive-date=29 January 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20180129091807/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/city-airport-to-have-tunnel-to-connect-to-satellite-terminal/article22407726.ece|url-status=live}} The new integrated Terminal 2 replaced the older Terminals 2 and 3 which were situated between Terminals 1 and 4. It commenced partial operations on 7 July 2023.{{cite news|last=Pall|first=Samreen|date=20 July 2023|title=Chennai Airport: International Flights Relocated to New Integrated Terminal Building (NITB)|url=https://www.news18.com/auto/chennai-airport-new-integrated-terminal-building-nitb-welcomes-all-international-passengers-after-successful-relocation-8310355.html|publisher=News18|access-date=11 January 2024|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111145930/https://www.news18.com/auto/chennai-airport-new-integrated-terminal-building-nitb-welcomes-all-international-passengers-after-successful-relocation-8310355.html|url-status=live}} The new terminal is designed with the inspiration from Tamil culture, with the building's exterior inspired from Dravidian Architecture of Hindu temples and the roof inspired from pleats of sari worn by Bharatanatyam dancers. The flooring and the false ceiling feature Kolam patterns and colourful murals. The outside of the terminal features a 1,730-kilogram Nachiarkoil lamp.{{cite tweet|number=1669945122547716097|user=aaichnairport|title=Nachiarkoil lamp at Chennai airport|access-date=1 June 2024}}

With the new integrated terminal opening in May 2023, the old Terminal 3 was demolished to extend the new integrated terminal (Terminal 2).{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/t3-terminal-at-chennai-airport-to-be-pulled-down-next-month/article67318395.ece|title=T3 terminal at Chennai airport to be pulled down next month|date=17 September 2023|access-date=1 December 2023|newspaper=The Hindu|archive-date=29 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230929031125/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/t3-terminal-at-chennai-airport-to-be-pulled-down-next-month/article67318395.ece|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Old international terminal at Chennai airport to be demolished in June|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/old-international-terminal-at-chennai-airport-to-be-demolished-in-june/article66767098.ece|newspaper=The Hindu|date=22 April 2023|access-date=1 August 2023|archive-date=1 August 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230801164213/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/old-international-terminal-at-chennai-airport-to-be-demolished-in-june/article66767098.ece|url-status=live}} This second phase of construction involved the expansion of the existing terminal by {{cvt|60000|m2}}. The complete new terminal building would be spread over {{cvt|197000|m2}} and have a handling capacity of 10 million passengers.{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/new-terminal-in-2-years-domestic-and-international-passengers-to-be-served-at-chennai-airport/articleshow/108280019.cms|title=New terminal in 2 yrs, to be used for domestic, int'l flyers|date=7 March 2024|newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615084246/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/new-terminal-in-2-years-domestic-and-international-passengers-to-be-served-at-chennai-airport/articleshow/108280019.cms|url-status=live}} The terminal has 100 check-in counters, 11 automated tray retrieval systems, six self-bag drops and six baggage reclaim belts. It is equipped with a passenger flow monitoring system (PFMS) that helps in management of passenger operations.{{cite web|title=Chennai International Airport's New Integrated Terminal Building (T2), India|url=https://www.airport-technology.com/projects/chennai-international-airports-new-integrated-terminal-building-t2-india/|publisher=Airport Technology|date=28 June 2023|access-date=11 January 2024|archive-date=11 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240111145930/https://www.airport-technology.com/projects/chennai-international-airports-new-integrated-terminal-building-t2-india/|url-status=live}}

= Cargo complex =

File:Chennai Cargo Terminal.JPG

The air cargo complex at the airport was established in 1978, with regulatory and facilitating agencies brought under one roof for faster processing and clearance of international cargo. Following the construction of new passenger terminals at Tirusulam, the old passenger terminal at Meenambakkam serves as the air cargo complex.{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/blue-dart-aviation-opens-hub-in-chennai/articleshow/64684675.cms|title=Blue Dart Aviation opens hub in Chennai|date=21 June 2018|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=The Times of India|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620120527/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/blue-dart-aviation-opens-hub-in-chennai/articleshow/64684675.cms|url-status=live}} The air cargo complex covers an area of {{cvt|19.6|acre}} and is operated by AAI Cargo Logistics and Allied Services Company (AAICLAS), a subsidiary of AAI.{{cite report|url=https://www.aera.gov.in/uploads/mytp/16582403072671.pdf|title=AAI Cargo Logistics and Allied Services Company submission to Economic Regulatory Authority|access-date=1 June 2024|publisher=AAICLAS|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620120529/https://www.aera.gov.in/uploads/mytp/16582403072671.pdf|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://in.thedollarbusiness.com/magazine/air-cargo-complex-at-chennai-airport-aiming-high-flying-low-literally/35410|title=Air cargo complex at Chennai airport aiming high flying low|work=Dollar Business|date=July 2015|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620120532/https://in.thedollarbusiness.com/magazine/air-cargo-complex-at-chennai-airport-aiming-high-flying-low-literally/35410|url-status=live}}

The cargo complex consists of two divisions, namely, the export and the import wings. The export facility covers an area of {{cvt|20595|m2}} and the import facility is spread across {{cvt|20096|m2}}.{{cite web|title=Air Cargo Complex, Chennai Airport, Chennai—Salient Features|publisher=Airports Authority of India|url=http://www.aai.aero/cargo/chennai_salientfeatures.jsp|access-date=5 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130801012245/http://www.aai.aero/cargo/chennai_salientfeatures.jsp|archive-date=1 August 2013}} The cargo complex is equipped with Automated Storage and Retrieval System (ASRS) for efficient storage and easy retrieval of cargo and operates fully mechanised Elevated Transfer Vehicles (ETV) for faster and easier cargo loading and unloading.{{cite report|url=https://aai.aero/sites/default/files/newspaper_articles_images/CargoConnect_July2011.pdf|title=Cargo infrastructure, a priority area|publisher=Cargo Connect|date=July 2011|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620121110/https://aai.aero/sites/default/files/newspaper_articles_images/CargoConnect_July2011.pdf|url-status=live}} The complex also has temperature-controlled cold storage for perishable cargo, and secured storage rooms for high value cargo.{{cite news|title=75% of modernisation work over at air cargo complex|newspaper=The Hindu|date=11 June 2011|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/tamil-nadu/article2094162.ece|access-date=23 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110612223555/http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/tamil-nadu/article2094162.ece|archive-date=12 June 2011}}{{cite web|title=Air Cargo Complex, Chennai Airport, Chennai—Perishable Cargo|publisher=Airports Authority of India|url=http://www.aai.aero/cargo/chennai_perishablecargo.jsp|access-date=5 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130801031817/http://www.aai.aero/cargo/chennai_perishablecargo.jsp|archive-date=1 August 2013}} As only a limited number of flights could be handled at the existing cargo complex, plans to build an integrated cargo handling terminal to increase the capacity to 0.3 million tonnes per annum was announced in early 2024.{{cite news|url=https://www.aircargonews.net/airlines/air-cargo-momentum-in-indias-state-of-tamil-nadu/|title=Air cargo momentum grows in India's State of Tamil Nadu|work=Air cargo news|date=6 March 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620121039/https://www.aircargonews.net/airlines/air-cargo-momentum-in-indias-state-of-tamil-nadu/|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/cargo-handling-decreases-at-airport-chennai-the-city-airport-falls-behind-in-volume-and-growth-of-cargo/articleshow/107995526.cms|title=Cargo handling decreases at airport|newspaper=The Times of India|date=26 February 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=27 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240227143847/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/cargo-handling-decreases-at-airport-chennai-the-city-airport-falls-behind-in-volume-and-growth-of-cargo/articleshow/107995526.cms|url-status=live}}

= Parking bays =

File:International_Terminal_Airside_Chennai_Airport_Aug22_D72_24874.jpg

The airport has 90 parking bays including 18 in-contact bays connected to the passenger terminals. The main apron (A) located to the south of the primary runway and the parallel taxiway B accommodates 33 parking bays including 11 parking bays that can accommodate wide body aircraft. Two aprons (Aprons II and III) are located between the two runways. Apron II can park 36 narrow-body aircraft and Apron III can accommodate 12 wide-body aircraft including one parking bay that can park an Airbus A380.

A remote apron (Apron I) located to the east of the secondary runway can accommodate a further eight narrow body jets. A smaller apron (T) located towards the east end of the secondary runway has three parking bays. An apron (B) located to the east of the air cargo complex caters to cargo operations has 10 parking bays with three of them accommodating wide body aircraft.

= Air traffic control =

File:Chennai Airport (3241289435).jpg tower with maintenance hangars in the foreground]]

File:Chennai International Airport vrvbaan042k24 (90).jpg

The Air traffic control tower is located at the Air Traffic Services Complex and is equipped with advanced surface movement guidance and control system.{{cite news|title=Vayalar Ravi inspects Air Traffic Control Tower at airport|newspaper=The Hindu|date=2 October 2011|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Chennai/article2506030.ece|access-date=13 January 2012|archive-date=5 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120105023440/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Chennai/article2506030.ece|url-status=live}} An automated smart flight guidance system was installed in October 2011 at a cost of {{INRconvert|420|m}}.{{cite web|title=Air Traffic Needs an Upgrade as Developing Countries Become More Affluent, Fly More: Expert|publisher=Raytheon|date=10 July 2012|url=http://www.raytheon.com/media/fia12/atm/|access-date=26 December 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130104032108/http://www.raytheon.com/media/fia12/atm/|archive-date=4 January 2013}}{{cite news|last=Ayyappan|first=V.|title=Airport on a smart flight guidance system|newspaper=The Times of India|date=22 July 2011|url=http://epaper.timesofindia.com/Default/Scripting/ArticleWin.asp?From=Archive&Source=Page&Skin=TOINEW&BaseHref=TOICH/2011/07/22&PageLabel=4&EntityId=Ar00401&ViewMode=HTML|access-date=23 January 2012|archive-date=14 June 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20130614025901/http://epaper.timesofindia.com/Default/Scripting/ArticleWin.asp?From=Archive&Source=Page&Skin=TOINEW&BaseHref=TOICH%2F2011%2F07%2F22&PageLabel=4&EntityId=Ar00401&ViewMode=HTML}} The automated system combines information from tower control, approach control, area control and oceanic control.{{cite news|last=Sujatha|first=S.|title=AAI to integrate entire air space|newspaper=Deccan Chronicle|date=30 September 2011|url=http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/chennai/aai-integrate-entire-air-space-633|access-date=13 January 2012|archive-date=2 October 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20111002084523/http://www.deccanchronicle.com/channels/cities/chennai/aai-integrate-entire-air-space-633}}{{cite news|last=Sinha|first=Shishir|author2=Ashwini Phadnis|title=Integrated air space management from Chennai today|newspaper=Business Line|date=21 September 2011|url=http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/logistics/article2473697.ece|access-date=13 January 2012|archive-date=27 September 2011|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110927214412/http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/industry-and-economy/logistics/article2473697.ece|url-status=live}}{{cite news|last=Kumaraswami|first=Sridhar|title=Chennai ATC to control traffic over 20,000 ft|newspaper=The Asian Age|date=15 September 2011|url=http://www.asianage.com/india/chennai-atc-control-traffic-over-20000 ft-122|access-date=13 January 2012|archive-date=18 July 2019|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20190718033809/https://www.asianage.com/india/chennai-atc-control-traffic-over-20000%C2%A0ft-122|url-status=live}} There are two radars, a secondary surveillance radar and a terminal radar.{{cite news|last=Janardhanan|first=Arun|title=Chennai ATC enjoys the navigation of entire South Indian skies|newspaper=The Times of India|date=29 September 2011|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Chennai-ATC-enjoys-the-navigation-of-entire-South-Indian-skies/articleshow/10163937.cms|access-date=13 January 2012|archive-date=25 March 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140325040341/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Chennai-ATC-enjoys-the-navigation-of-entire-South-Indian-skies/articleshow/10163937.cms|url-status=live}} As the airport controls one of the four flight information regions in the country, other radar systems in the region are integrated with the ATC at Chennai.{{cite news|last=Oppili|first=P.|title=Testing of new air traffic control technology begins|newspaper=The Hindu|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/tamil-nadu/article2050300.ece|access-date=31 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110527160158/http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/tamil-nadu/article2050300.ece|archive-date=27 May 2011}} In 2021, AAI announced plans to construct a new ATC complex at the airport.{{cite news|url=https://www.indiatoday.in/cities/chennai/story/aai-mulls-building-new-air-traffic-control-complex-at-chennai-airport-1887582-2021-12-14|title=AAI mulls building new air traffic control complex at Chennai airport|work=India Today|date=14 December 2021|access-date=1 December 2023|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615064351/https://www.indiatoday.in/cities/chennai/story/aai-mulls-building-new-air-traffic-control-complex-at-chennai-airport-1887582-2021-12-14|url-status=live}}

= Other facilities =

The old parking lot at the airport accommodated 1,200 cars.{{cite news|last=Sekar|first=Sunitha|title=Multi-level car park to be built at Chennai airport|newspaper=The Hindu|date=15 June 2018|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/multi-level-car-park-to-be-built-at-chennai-airport/article24167331.ece|access-date=17 October 2018|archive-date=15 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200215061851/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/multi-level-car-park-to-be-built-at-chennai-airport/article24167331.ece|url-status=live}} In June 2018, a six-level car park with a capacity to accommodate 2,237 cars was planned in front of the airport on a 4.25-acre plot.{{cite news|last=Simhan|first=T. E. Raja|title=50 companies evince interest in new multilevel car park at Chennai airport|newspaper=Business Line|date=3 January 2018|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/logistics/50-companies-evince-interest-in-new-multilevel-car-park-at-chennai-airport/article10010238.ece|access-date=17 October 2018|archive-date=12 February 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200212163340/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/logistics/50-companies-evince-interest-in-new-multilevel-car-park-at-chennai-airport/article10010238.ece|url-status=live}} Construction began in March 2019, was completed in December 2021 and opened in 2022.{{cite news|last=Sekar|first=Sunitha|title=Multi-level parking facility soon at airport|newspaper=The Hindu|date=13 March 2019|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/multi-level-parking-facility-soon-at-airport/article26515854.ece|access-date=1 May 2019|archive-date=28 January 2020|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20200128081156/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/multi-level-parking-facility-soon-at-airport/article26515854.ece|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Take off delayed for multi-level parking lot at Chennai airport|newspaper=The Hindu|date=11 December 2021|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/take-off-delayed-for-multi-level-parking-lot-at-chennai-airport/article37934924.ece|access-date=9 January 2022|archive-date=9 January 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220109223530/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/take-off-delayed-for-multi-level-parking-lot-at-chennai-airport/article37934924.ece|url-status=live}}{{cite news|title=Opening of Chennai airport's parking lot put off yet again|newspaper=The Hindu|first=Sunitha|last=Sekar|date=29 May 2022|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/opening-of-chennai-airports-parking-lot-put-off-yet-again/article65473057.ece|access-date=10 June 2022|archive-date=10 June 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220610041627/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/opening-of-chennai-airports-parking-lot-put-off-yet-again/article65473057.ece|url-status=live}} In addition, a {{cvt|250000|ft2}} mall named Aerohub was built. The mall has a {{cvt|238100|ft2}} cinema multiplex and a {{cvt|35678|ft2}} 59-key transit hotel facility.{{cite news|last=Shivakumar|first=C.|title=Airport to house multiplex with multi-level car parking|newspaper=The Indian Express|date=7 September 2018|url=http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2018/sep/07/airport-to-house-multiplex-with-multi-level-car-parking-1868685.html|access-date=17 October 2018|archive-date=17 October 2018|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20181017123905/http://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2018/sep/07/airport-to-house-multiplex-with-multi-level-car-parking-1868685.html}}{{cite news|last=Shivakumar|first=C.|url=https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2021/Dec/07/trial-run-ofchennai-airports-much-awaitedcar-park-facility-likely-in-january-2392655.html|title=Trial run of Chennai airport's much-awaited car park facility likely in January|newspaper=The New Indian Express|date=7 December 2021|access-date=1 December 2023|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615113703/https://www.newindianexpress.com/cities/chennai/2021/Dec/07/trial-run-ofchennai-airports-much-awaitedcar-park-facility-likely-in-january-2392655.html|url-status=live}} TajSATS, a joint-venture of the Indian Hotels Company and SATS, provides in-flight catering at Chennai Airport.{{cite web|title=Company Profile|publisher=TajSATS Air Catering|url=http://www.tajsats.com/abt_profile.htm|access-date=5 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120322022828/http://www.tajsats.com/abt_profile.htm|archive-date=22 March 2012}} It also manages the airport lounges.{{cite web|title=Airline Lounges|publisher=TajSATS Air Catering|url=http://www.tajsats.com/srv_services_lounges.htm|access-date=5 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20131207203238/http://tajsats.com/srv_services_lounges.htm|archive-date=7 December 2013}} The Taj Madras Flight Kitchen, a joint venture of the Indian Hotels, SATS and Malaysia Airlines which started in 1994, operates restaurants at the airport.{{cite news|title=Indian Hotels Company Ltd.—Company History|newspaper=The Economic Times|url=http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/indian-hotels-company-ltd/infocompanyhistory/companyid-13586.cms|access-date=5 January 2013|archive-date=10 May 2014|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140510060834/http://economictimes.indiatimes.com/indian-hotels-company-ltd/infocompanyhistory/companyid-13586.cms|url-status=live}}{{cite web|title=Airport Restaurant|publisher=TajSATS Air Catering|url=http://www.tajsats.com/srv_services_restaurant.htm|access-date=5 January 2013|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20140106185307/http://www.tajsats.com/srv_services_restaurant.htm|archive-date=6 January 2014}}

In 2008, a {{cvt|6503|m2}} maintenance, repair and overhaul (MRO) hangar was established at a cost of {{INRconvert|111.5|m}}.{{cite news|url=https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/deccan-opens-first-hangar-in-chennai/story-mYWx4CCZCXSRR5gSHkhamN.html|title=Deccan opens first hangar in Chennai|newspaper=Hindustan Times|date=18 January 2008|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615113703/https://www.hindustantimes.com/india/deccan-opens-first-hangar-in-chennai/story-mYWx4CCZCXSRR5gSHkhamN.html|url-status=live}} The facility can handle one large or two smaller aircraft and functions as a repair shop and assembly area. It is equipped with an engineering and training facility and an engineering maintenance conference room.{{cite news|title=Deccan opens MRO hangar at Chennai Airport|newspaper=India Aviation|publisher=Centre for Asia Pacific Aviation|date=22 January 2008|url=http://indiaaviation.aero/news/airline/6900/59/Deccan-opens-MRO-hangar-at-Chennai-Airport|access-date=7 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120425231815/http://indiaaviation.aero/news/airline/6900/59/Deccan-opens-MRO-hangar-at-Chennai-Airport|archive-date=25 April 2012}} Fire and rescue services at the airport are provided by Tamil Nadu Fire and Rescue Services in conjunction with AAI.{{cite web|url=https://www.aai.aero/en/content/fire-services-0|title=Fire services|publisher=Airports Authority of India|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=2 May 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220502140052/https://www.aai.aero/en/content/fire-services-0|url-status=live}}{{cite news|url=https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chennai/remya-sreekantan-mother-of-a-two-year-old-is-chennai-airports-first-woman-firefighter-6121255/|title=Meet Remya Sreekantan, the first woman firefighter at Chennai's airport|newspaper=The Indian Express|date=23 November 2019|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615055529/https://indianexpress.com/article/cities/chennai/remya-sreekantan-mother-of-a-two-year-old-is-chennai-airports-first-woman-firefighter-6121255/|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.tnfrs.tn.gov.in/about-us/achievements/|title=Achievements of Fire services|publisher=Government of Tamil Nadu|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=29 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240329040713/https://www.tnfrs.tn.gov.in/about-us/achievements/|url-status=live}}

Future plans

{{further|Chennai Greenfield Airport}}

The existing airport is expected to reach saturation by 2035, with a peak capacity of 40 million passengers.{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/chennais-2nd-airport-may-come-up-on-3500-acres-near-mamandur/articleshow/68312148.cms|title=New Chennai Airport: Chennai's 2nd airport may come up on 3,500 acres near Mamandur|newspaper=The Times of India|date=8 March 2019|access-date=12 August 2019|archive-date=27 October 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20211027165249/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/chennais-2nd-airport-may-come-up-on-3500-acres-near-mamandur/articleshow/68312148.cms|url-status=live}} Plans for a second, greenfield, airport for the city have been put forward since 2012;{{cite news|last=Oppili|first=P.|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/tamil-nadu/article2334267.ece|newspaper=The Hindu|title=State government has to decide on second airport for Chennai: AAI|date=8 August 2011|access-date=11 January 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20110911032508/http://www.thehindu.com/news/states/tamil-nadu/article2334267.ece|archive-date=11 September 2011}} In August 2022, the state government selected Parandur in Kanchipuram district as location for the new airport on {{cvt|4970|acre}} of land.

Airlines and destinations

= Passenger =

{{Airport-dest-list

|{{nowrap|Air Arabia}}|Sharjah{{cite news| url=https://www.india.com/business/international-flights-air-arabia-to-operate-direct-flights-between-chennai-and-abu-dhabi-from-april-27-check-flight-schedule-covid-guidelines-air-travel-calicut-cochin-delhi-5334660/|title=Air Arabia to Operate Direct Flights Between Chennai And Abu Dhabi From April 27|work=India.com|date=12 April 2022|access-date=5 February 2022|archive-date=12 April 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220412165334/https://www.india.com/business/international-flights-air-arabia-to-operate-direct-flights-between-chennai-and-abu-dhabi-from-april-27-check-flight-schedule-covid-guidelines-air-travel-calicut-cochin-delhi-5334660/|url-status=live}}

|{{nowrap|Air Arabia Abu Dhabi}}|Abu Dhabi{{cite web|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/220427-3lmay22in|title=Air Arabia Abu Dhabi further expands|work=Aeroroutes|access-date=27 April 2022|archive-date=11 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230311202827/https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/220427-3lmay22in|url-status=live}}{{cite news| url=https://travelbizmonitor.com/air-arabia-abu-dhabi-to-start-mumbai-operations-from-may-12/|title=Air Arabia Abu Dhabi to start Mumbai operations from May 12|date=29 April 2022|access-date=1 June 2024|work=Travel Biz monitor}}

|{{nowrap|AirAsia}}|Kuala Lumpur–International{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/logistics/airasia-expanding-in-tier-ii-cities-of-india/article67891779.ece|title=AirAsia expanding in tier-II cities of India|date=27 February 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=Business Line|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615141748/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/logistics/airasia-expanding-in-tier-ii-cities-of-india/article67891779.ece|url-status=live}}

|Air India{{cite web|url=https://www.airindia.com/in/en/destinations/route-map.html|title=Route map|work=Air India|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=18 May 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240518065152/https://www.airindia.com/in/en/destinations/route-map.html|url-status=live}}|Bengaluru,{{cite news|url=https://www.ndtvprofit.com/trending/air-indias-a350-900-to-fly-on-domestic-routes-from-january-22-bookings-open-npc|title=Air India's A350 Bookings Open|date=3 January 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|work=NDTV|archive-date=19 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619115018/https://www.ndtvprofit.com/trending/air-indias-a350-900-to-fly-on-domestic-routes-from-january-22-bookings-open-npc|url-status=live}} Coimbatore,{{cite news|url=https://www.businesstraveller.com/business-travel/2021/02/15/air-india-announces-new-flights-from-chennai/|title=Air India announces new flights from Chennai|date=15 February 2021|access-date=1 June 2024|work=Business Traveller|archive-date=28 December 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221228184348/https://www.businesstraveller.com/business-travel/2021/02/15/air-india-announces-new-flights-from-chennai/|url-status=live}} Colombo–Bandaranaike,{{cite news| url=https://www.india.com/travel/articles/international-flights-latest-news-today-19-november-2021-air-india-resumes-direct-flights-to-sri-lanka-colombo-from-delhi-chennai-check-full-schedule-travel-guidelines-5102718/|title=Air India Resumes Direct Flights to Sri Lanka|date=19 November 2021|access-date=1 June 2024|work=India.com|archive-date=19 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619115016/https://www.india.com/travel/articles/international-flights-latest-news-today-19-november-2021-air-india-resumes-direct-flights-to-sri-lanka-colombo-from-delhi-chennai-check-full-schedule-travel-guidelines-5102718/|url-status=live}} Delhi,{{cite news|url=https://www.livechennai.com/detailnews.asp?newsid=70144&catid=2|title=Chennai-Delhi Air India Flight Delayed|date=17 February 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|work=Live Chennai|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620121225/https://www.livechennai.com/detailnews.asp?newsid=70144&catid=2|url-status=live}} Dubai–International,{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/chennai-flight-tickets-to-gulf-become-costlier/articleshow/92397682.cms| title=Chennai: Flight tickets to Gulf become costlier|newspaper=The Times of India|date=1 June 2022|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=19 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619115019/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/chennai-flight-tickets-to-gulf-become-costlier/articleshow/92397682.cms|url-status=live}} Hyderabad,{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/logistics/air-india-to-deploy-a350-on-nine-domestic-routes-from-jan-22/article67695787.ece|title=Air India to deploy A350 on nine domestic routes|date=3 January 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=The Hindu|archive-date=19 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619115016/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/logistics/air-india-to-deploy-a350-on-nine-domestic-routes-from-jan-22/article67695787.ece|url-status=live}} Kolkata,{{cite news|url=https://www.business-standard.com/companies/news/air-india-ordered-to-pay-rs-2-lakh-to-passengers-for-multiple-flight-delays-123121200697_1.html|title=Air India ordered to pay Rs 2 lakh to passengers for multiple flight delays|date=12 December 2023|newspaper=Business Standard|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=19 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619115018/https://www.business-standard.com/companies/news/air-india-ordered-to-pay-rs-2-lakh-to-passengers-for-multiple-flight-delays-123121200697_1.html|url-status=live}} Madurai,{{cite news|url=https://www.livechennai.com/detailnews.asp?catid=&newsid=36221|title=New flight services from Chennai to Trichy, Coimbatore, and Madurai|work=Live Chennai|date=23 August 2017|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=24 August 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170824222506/http://www.livechennai.com/detailnews.asp?catid=&newsid=36221|url-status=live}} Mumbai,{{cite news| url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/logistics/air-india-to-introduce-new-business-class-on-domestic-flights-from-july-1/article68307193.ece| title=Air India to introduce new business class on domestic flights from July 1|date=19 June 2024|access-date=19 June 2024|newspaper=The Hindu}} Singapore{{cite news| url=https://www.india.com/business/international-flights-latest-news-today-24th-march-2022-india-singapore-flights-news-air-india-flights-to-singapore-vaccinated-travel-lanes-booking-details-5300940/|title=Air India to Operate Flights to Singapore Under Vaccinated Travel Lanes, Bookings Begin From March 27|date=24 March 2022|access-date=1 June 2024|work=India.com|archive-date=19 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619115017/https://www.india.com/business/international-flights-latest-news-today-24th-march-2022-india-singapore-flights-news-air-india-flights-to-singapore-vaccinated-travel-lanes-booking-details-5300940/|url-status=live}}

|Air India Express|Bengaluru,{{cite web|url=https://www.flightradar24.com/data/flights/i5782|title=AIX Connect flight I5782|work=Flightradar24|access-date=19 June 2024}} Bhubaneswar,{{cite web| url=https://www.airindiaexpress.com/flight-availability?/BBI/MAA/2024-08-12/N/1/0/0/0/0/0/0/O/N/INR/ST/0|title=Chennai to Bhubaneswar, 12 August 2024|work=Air India Express|access-date=23 June 2024|archive-date=4 October 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241004121903/https://www.airindiaexpress.com/flight-availability?/BBI/MAA/2024-08-12/N/1/0/0/0/0/0/0/O/N/INR/ST/0|url-status=live}}{{cite news| url=https://www.uniindia.com/air-india-express-launches-daily-direct-flights-between-hyderabad-and-bhubaneswar/south/news/3253378.html|title=Air India express launches daily direct flights between Hyderabad and Bhubaneswar|date=1 August 2024|access-date=2 August 2024|work=United News|archive-date=4 October 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241004121907/https://www.uniindia.com/air-india-express-launches-daily-direct-flights-between-hyderabad-and-bhubaneswar/south/news/3253378.html|url-status=live}} Dammam,{{cite news| url=https://www.dtnext.in/news/city/now-additional-flights-from-chennai-to-thailand-saudi-arabia-and-west-bengal-785483|title=Now, additional flights from Chennai to Thailand, Saudi Arabia and West Bengal|date=18 May 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=Dtnext|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620121752/https://www.dtnext.in/pageview_candidate.html?id=791083|url-status=live}} Ghaziabad,{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/trichy/ai-express-to-launch-hindon-trichy-flight-via-chennai/articleshow/118224045.cms|title=Air India's Express milk-run, Trichy-Chennai-Hindon-Jammu}} Goa–Dabolim, Goa–Mopa,{{cite web |title=Air India Express NS25 Domestic Network Additions – 16MAR25 |url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/250317-ixns25dom |website=Aeroroutes |access-date=17 March 2025}} Guwahati,{{cite web| url=https://www.flightradar24.com/data/flights/i52461|title=AIX Connect flight I52461|work=Flightradar24|access-date=19 June 2024|archive-date=19 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619113347/https://www.flightradar24.com/data/flights/i52461|url-status=live}} Hyderabad,{{cite web|url=https://www.flightradar24.com/data/flights/ix1882|title=Air India Express flight IX1882|work=Flightradar24|access-date=19 June 2024|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620121744/https://www.flightradar24.com/data/flights/ix1882|url-status=live}} Jaipur, Jammu,{{cite news|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/noida/as-chennai-flight-takes-off-hindon-linked-to-all-metros/articleshow/119352117.cms |title=As Chennai flight takes off, Hindon linked to all metros |date=22 March 2024|access-date=22 March 2024|newspaper=Times of India|archive-date=2025-03-22 |archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20250322230517/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/noida/as-chennai-flight-takes-off-hindon-linked-to-all-metros/articleshow/119352117.cms/|url-status=live}} Kochi, Kuwait City,{{cite news|url=https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/air-india-express-launches-new-route-from-chennai-to-kuwait/|title=Air India Express launches new route from Chennai to Kuwait|date=5 March 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|work=Travel and Tour World|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620121809/https://www.travelandtourworld.com/news/article/air-india-express-launches-new-route-from-chennai-to-kuwait/|url-status=live}} Kolkata,{{cite web| url=https://www.flightradar24.com/data/flights/ix1885|title=Air India Express flight IX1885|work=Flightradar24|access-date=19 June 2024|archive-date=19 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619113344/https://www.flightradar24.com/data/flights/ix1885|url-status=live}} Mangaluru,{{cite web|title=Air India Express Adds Chennai-Mangalore|work=The Hindu |date=27 March 2025 |url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/Mangalore/air-india-express-to-connect-mangaluru-with-hyderabad-chennai-from-april/article69382003.ece|publisher=thehindu|access-date=5 April 2025}} Muscat,{{cite web|title=Air India Express Adds Muscat – Chennai in 1Q25|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/241211-ai1q25maamct|publisher=AeroRoutes|access-date=11 December 2024}} Patna, Port Blair,{{cite news|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/business/airlines-aviation-direct-flights-from-port-blair-air-india-express-launches-daily-direct-flights-from-sri-vijaya-puram-to-bengaluru-and-kolkata-3681356/|title=Direct flights from Port Blair! Air India Express launches daily direct flights from Sri Vijaya Puram to Bengaluru and Kolkata|date=1 December 2024|access-date=1 December 2024|work=Financial Express}} Pune,{{cite news|url=https://punemirror.com/pune/others/air-india-express-introduces-daily-chennai-pune-service-beginning-november-1-2024/cid1728385679.htm|title=Air India Express Introduces Daily Chennai-Pune Service Beginning November 1, 2024|work=Pune Mirror|date=8 October 2024|access-date=1 December 2024}} Siliguri,{{cite web| url=https://www.flightradar24.com/data/flights/ix1883|title=Air India Express flight IX1883|work=Flightradar24|access-date=19 June 2024|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620121811/https://www.flightradar24.com/data/flights/ix1883|url-status=live}} Singapore,{{cite news| url=https://www.dtnext.in/news/city/technical-snag-delays-chennai-singapore-flight-for-five-hours-790031|title=Technical snag delays Chennai-Singapore flight for five hours|date=13 June 2024|access-date=17 June 2024|work=Dtnext|archive-date=19 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619113345/https://www.dtnext.in/news/city/technical-snag-delays-chennai-singapore-flight-for-five-hours-790031|url-status=live}} Surat,{{cite news| url=https://www.cnbctv18.com/travel/destinations/air-india-express-to-start-direct-flights-from-pune-and-surat-to-bangkok-19515805.htm|title=Air India Express to start direct flights from Pune and Surat to Bangkok|date=27 November 2024|access-date=1 December 2024|work=CNBC TV18}} Thiruvananthapuram,{{cite web|url=https://www.airindiaexpress.com/flight-availability?/MAA/TRV/2024-08-20/N/1/0/0/0/0/0/0/O/N/INR/ST/0|title=Chennai to Thiruvananthapuram, 20 August 2024|work=Air India Express|access-date=23 June 2024|archive-date=4 October 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241004121903/https://www.airindiaexpress.com/flight-availability?/MAA/TRV/2024-08-20/N/1/0/0/0/0/0/0/O/N/INR/ST/0|url-status=live}} Tiruchirappalli,{{cite news| url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/trichy/ai-express-to-launch-hindon-trichy-flight-via-chennai/articleshow/118224045.cms|title=Air India's Express milk-run, Trichy-Chennai-Hindon-Jammu}} Varanasi

|{{nowrap|Air Mauritius}}|Mauritius{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/air-mauritius-resumes-widebody-flights-to-chennai/article68061790.ece|title=Air Mauritius resumes wide body flights to Chennai|newspaper=The Hindu|date=14 April 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615141748/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/air-mauritius-resumes-widebody-flights-to-chennai/article68061790.ece|url-status=live}}

|Akasa Air|Mumbai, Port Blair{{cite news|url=https://blog.wego.com/akasa-air-to-fly-to-port-blair-from-chennai-and-bengaluru-in-december-news/|title=Akasa Air to Fly to Port Blair From Chennai and Bengaluru in December|date=22 November 2023|access-date=1 December 2023|work=Wego|archive-date=24 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240224071741/https://blog.wego.com/akasa-air-to-fly-to-port-blair-from-chennai-and-bengaluru-in-december-news/|url-status=live}}

|Alliance Air|Hyderabad{{cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/alliance-air-commences-daily-flights-between-chennai-jaffna/articleshow/101816494.cms?from=mdr|title=Alliance Air commences daily flights between Chennai & Jaffna|date=17 July 2023|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=The Economic Times|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615143427/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/alliance-air-commences-daily-flights-between-chennai-jaffna/articleshow/101816494.cms?from=mdr|url-status=live}}

|Biman Bangladesh Airlines|Dhaka{{cite news|url=https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/foreign-affairs/331265/biman-to-start-dhaka-chennai-direct-flight-from|title=Biman to start Dhaka-Chennai direct flight from December 16|newspaper=Dhaka Tribune|date=16 November 2023|access-date=17 November 2023|archive-date=17 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231117061551/https://www.dhakatribune.com/bangladesh/foreign-affairs/331265/biman-to-start-dhaka-chennai-direct-flight-from|url-status=live}}

|British Airways|London–Heathrow{{cite news|url=https://www.businesstraveller.com/business-travel/2021/09/02/british-airways-resumes-flights-between-chennai-and-london/|title=British Airways resumes flights between Chennai and London|work=Business Traveller India|date=2 September 2021|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=4 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404140747/https://www.businesstraveller.com/business-travel/2021/09/02/british-airways-resumes-flights-between-chennai-and-london/|url-status=live}}

|Cathay Pacific|Hong Kong{{cite news|title=Cathay Pacific resumes direct flights between Chennai and Hong Kong|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/cathay-pacific-resumes-direct-flights-between-chennai-and-hong-kong/article67805280.ece|newspaper=The Hindu|date=3 February 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615141748/https://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/cathay-pacific-resumes-direct-flights-between-chennai-and-hong-kong/article67805280.ece|url-status=live}}

|Emirates|Dubai–International{{cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/visit/dubai-based-emirates-rolls-out-pre-approved-visa-on-arrival-for-select-indian-passport-holders/articleshow/107331504.cms?from=mdr|title=These Indian travellers can get visas on arrival in the UAE|newspaper=The Economic Times|date=2 February 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615141748/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/nri/visit/dubai-based-emirates-rolls-out-pre-approved-visa-on-arrival-for-select-indian-passport-holders/articleshow/107331504.cms?from=mdr|url-status=live}}

|Ethiopian Airlines|Addis Ababa{{cite news|last1=Phadnis|first1=Aneesh|title=Ethiopian Airlines to boost India flights, eyes higher traffic from BRICS|url=https://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/ethiopian-airlines-to-boost-india-flights-eyes-higher-traffic-from-brics-122042900245_1.html|access-date=2 May 2022|newspaper=Business Standard|location=India|date=29 April 2022|archive-date=18 January 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230118232041/https://www.business-standard.com/article/economy-policy/ethiopian-airlines-to-boost-india-flights-eyes-higher-traffic-from-brics-122042900245_1.html|url-status=live}}

|{{nowrap|Etihad Airways}}|Abu Dhabi{{cite web|url=https://www.india.com/travel/articles/international-flights-latest-news-today-6-august-2021-etihad-airways-announces-flight-schedule-from-chennai-kochi-bengaluru-trivandrum-new-delhi-to-start-operation-from-tomorrow-air-travel-latest-4870201|title=Etihad Airways announces services From 5 Indian Cities|date=7 August 2021|access-date=1 June 2024|work=India.com|archive-date=4 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230404154451/https://www.india.com/travel/articles/international-flights-latest-news-today-6-august-2021-etihad-airways-announces-flight-schedule-from-chennai-kochi-bengaluru-trivandrum-new-delhi-to-start-operation-from-tomorrow-air-travel-latest-4870201/|url-status=live}}

|FitsAir|Colombo–Bandaranaike{{cite news|title=Sri Lanka's FitsAir launches Colombo-Chennai flight|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/sri-lankas-fitsair-launches-colombo-chennai-flight/article66531910.ece/|newspaper=The Hindu|date=21 February 2023|access-date=22 February 2023|archive-date=22 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230222060335/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/tamil-nadu/sri-lankas-fitsair-launches-colombo-chennai-flight/article66531910.ece/amp/|url-status=live}}

|{{nowrap|Gulf Air}}|Bahrain{{cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/gulf-air-to-operate-daily-flights-to-thiruvananthapuram/articleshow/45190426.cms?from=mdr|title=Gulf Air to operate daily flights to Thiruvananthapuram|newspaper=The Economic Times|date=18 November 2014|access-date=26 March 2022|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615141750/https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/gulf-air-to-operate-daily-flights-to-thiruvananthapuram/articleshow/45190426.cms?from=mdr|url-status=live}}

|IndiGo{{cite web|url=https://www.goindigo.in/information/route-map.html|title=Schedule|work=IndiGo|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=31 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221031132201/https://www.goindigo.in/information/route-map.html|url-status=live}}{{cite web| url=https://info.flightmapper.net/airline/6E/MAA|title=IndiGo flights from MAA|work=Flightmapper|access-date=19 June 2024|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620121636/https://info.flightmapper.net/airline/6E/MAA|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=https://www.flightradar24.com/data/airlines/6e-igo/routes|title=IndiGo departures from MAA|work=Flightradar24|access-date=19 June 2024|archive-date=3 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240103174559/https://www.flightradar24.com/data/airlines/6e-igo/routes|url-status=live}}|Abu Dhabi,{{cite news|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/230210-6eme|title=Indigo NS23 Middle East Network Additions|work=Aeroroutes|access-date=10 February 2023|archive-date=10 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230210064336/https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/230210-6eme|url-status=live}} Agartala, Ahmedabad, Bangkok–Suvarnabhumi,{{cite news|title=IndiGo to resume Chennai-Bangkok operations|url=https://www.uniindia.com/indigo-to-resume-chennai-bangkok-operations-launch-direct-flights-to-durgapur/south/news/3182958.html|work=United News of India|date=19 April 2024|access-date=23 April 2024|archive-date=23 April 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240423102105/https://www.uniindia.com/indigo-to-resume-chennai-bangkok-operations-launch-direct-flights-to-durgapur/south/news/3182958.html|url-status=live}} Bengaluru, Bhubaneswar, Chandigarh, Coimbatore, Colombo–Bandaranaike, Delhi, Dhaka, Doha, Dubai–International, Durgapur,{{cite news|title=IndiGo to launch direct flight connectivity from Chennai to Durgapur from May 16|url=https://www.telegraphindia.com/business/indigo-to-launch-direct-flight-connectivity-from-chennai-to-durgapur-from-may-16/cid/2014416|work=The Telegraph|date=19 April 2024|access-date=22 April 2024|archive-date=22 April 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240422072617/https://www.telegraphindia.com/business/indigo-to-launch-direct-flight-connectivity-from-chennai-to-durgapur-from-may-16/cid/2014416|url-status=live}} Goa–Dabolim, Goa–Mopa,{{cite news| url=https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/2025/03/12/indigo-summer-2025-network-adjustments/|title=Indigo 2025 Summer Schedule}} Guwahati, Hyderabad, Indore, Jaffna,{{cite news|url=https://networkthoughts.com/2024/08/01/indigos-turboprop-will-go-international-with-flights-to-jaffna/|title=Indigo to start daily flight services between Chennai and Jaffna from 1 September 2024|date=1 August 2024|access-date=1 August 2024|work=Network Thoughts|archive-date=4 October 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241004121808/https://networkthoughts.com/2024/08/01/indigos-turboprop-will-go-international-with-flights-to-jaffna/|url-status=live}} Jaipur, Kadapa,{{cite news|url=https://www.thehansindia.com/andhra-pradesh/indigo-to-start-flight-services-from-kadapa-to-vijayawada-and-chennai-from-march-27-727323|title=Indigo to start flight services from Kadapa to Vijayawada and Chennai from March 27|access-date=23 February 2022|work=Hans India|archive-date=18 February 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230218100653/https://www.thehansindia.com/amp/andhra-pradesh/indigo-to-start-flight-services-from-kadapa-to-vijayawada-and-chennai-from-march-27-727323|url-status=live}} Kannur, Kochi, Kolkata, Kozhikode, Kuala Lumpur–International, Kurnool,{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/indigo-flights-from-kurnool-to-begin-on-march-28/article33702271.ece|title=IndiGo flights from Kurnool to begin on March 28|newspaper=The Hindu|date=30 January 2021|access-date=30 January 2021|last1=Susarla|first1=Ramesh|archive-date=30 January 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210130075338/https://www.thehindu.com/news/national/andhra-pradesh/indigo-flights-from-kurnool-to-begin-on-march-28/article33702271.ece|url-status=live}} Kuwait City,{{cite news| url=https://aviationa2z.com/index.php/2025/03/12/indigo-summer-2025-network-adjustments/|title=Indigo 2025 Summer Schedule}} Lucknow, Madurai, Mangaluru, Mumbai, Mysore, Patna, Penang,{{cite web |url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/241120-6edec24pen |title=IndiGo Adds Chennai - Penang Service from late-Dec 2024 |website=AeroRoutes |access-date=20 November 2024}} Port Blair,{{cite news|url=https://www.traveltrendstoday.in/indigo-announces-launch-of-28-new-flights/|title=IndiGo Announces Launch of 28 New Flights|date=19 January 2023|access-date=1 June 2024|work=Travel trends}} Pune, Raipur, Rajahmundry, Ranchi,{{cite news|url=https://www.jagran.com/jharkhand/ranchi-birsa-munda-airport-news-air-services-starting-from-ranchi-to-chennai-from-18-november-21065493.html|title=Air services starting from Ranchi to Chennai|newspaper=Dainik Jagran|date=18 November 2020|access-date=6 January 2021|archive-date=4 February 2021|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20210204135618/https://www.jagran.com/jharkhand/ranchi-birsa-munda-airport-news-air-services-starting-from-ranchi-to-chennai-from-18-november-21065493.html|url-status=live}} Salem,{{cite news|last=Sengupta|first=Joy|title=IndiGo commences operations from Salem|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/indigo-commences-operations-from-salem/articleshow/104827375.cms|newspaper=The Times of India|date=30 October 2023|access-date=30 October 2023|archive-date=30 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231030132445/https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/business/india-business/indigo-commences-operations-from-salem/articleshow/104827375.cms|url-status=live}} Shirdi, Siliguri, Singapore, Surat, Thiruvananthapuram, Tiruchirappalli, Tuticorin, Vadodara,{{cite web|url=https://info.flightmapper.net/flight/IndiGo_6E_6374?date=2024-10-30|title=IndiGo flight no. 6E 6374|work=Flightmapper|access-date=28 August 2024|archive-date=28 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240828065357/https://info.flightmapper.net/flight/IndiGo_6E_6374?date=2024-10-30|url-status=live}} Varanasi, Vijayawada, Visakhapatnam

|{{nowrap|Jazeera Airways}}|Kuwait City{{cite news|url=https://goachronicle.com/jazeera-airways-completes-one-year-operations-to-chennai/|title=Jazeera Airways completes one year operations to Chennai|date=3 November 2022|access-date=1 June 2024|work=Goa Chronicle|archive-date=16 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240616062915/https://goachronicle.com/jazeera-airways-completes-one-year-operations-to-chennai/|url-status=live}}

|Kuwait Airways|Kuwait City{{cite news|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/life/travel-tourism/kuwait-airways-to-start-operations-to-ahmedabad-and-bangalore-2/30802/|title=Kuwait Airways to start operations to Ahmedabad and Bangalore|date=26 January 2015|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=The Financial Express|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615142054/https://www.financialexpress.com/life/travel-tourism/kuwait-airways-to-start-operations-to-ahmedabad-and-bangalore-2/30802/|url-status=live}}

|Lufthansa|Frankfurt{{cite news|url=https://www.financialexpress.com/business/airlines-aviation-lufthansa-to-increase-flight-frequency-from-india-3348131/|title=Lufthansa to increase flight frequency from India|newspaper=The Financial Express|date=27 December 2023|access-date=23 March 2024|archive-date=3 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240103195804/https://www.financialexpress.com/business/airlines-aviation-lufthansa-to-increase-flight-frequency-from-india-3348131/|url-status=live}}

|Malaysia Airlines|Kuala Lumpur–International{{cite news|last1=Karp|first1=Aaron|title=Malaysia Airlines Reboots International Network|url=https://www.routesonline.com/news/29/breaking-news/297780/malaysia-airlines-reboots-international-network/|work=Routesonline|access-date=23 March 2022|archive-date=27 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230327163555/https://www.routesonline.com/news/29/breaking-news/297780/malaysia-airlines-reboots-international-network/|url-status=live}}

|{{nowrap|Myanmar Airways International}}|Yangon{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/myanmar-airways-international-to-commence-chennai-yangon-direct-flight-from-may-6/article66702249.ece|title=Myanmar Airways International to commence Chennai-Yangon direct flight service from May 6|newspaper=Business Line|date=5 April 2023|access-date=13 April 2023|archive-date=13 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230413041027/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/news/myanmar-airways-international-to-commence-chennai-yangon-direct-flight-from-may-6/article66702249.ece|url-status=live}}

|Oman Air|Muscat{{cite news|url=https://timesofoman.com/article/144148-oman-air-launches-new-schedule-for-summer-2024|title=Oman Air launches new schedule for summer 2024|newspaper=Times of Oman|date=8 April 2024|access-date=1 May 2024|archive-date=18 April 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240418175137/https://timesofoman.com/article/144148-oman-air-launches-new-schedule-for-summer-2024|url-status=live}}

|Qatar Airways|Doha{{cite news|url=https://www.news18.com/news/auto/technical-glitch-detected-in-qatar-airways-chennai-doha-flight-on-runway-passengers-safe-6517447.html|title=Technical Glitch Detected in Qatar Airways Chennai-Doha Flight on Runway; Passengers Safe|date=2 December 2022|work=News18|access-date=7 December 2023|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615141747/https://www.news18.com/news/auto/technical-glitch-detected-in-qatar-airways-chennai-doha-flight-on-runway-passengers-safe-6517447.html|url-status=live}}

|Royal Brunei Airlines|Bandar Seri Begawan{{cite news|title=Royal Brunei Schedules Chennai Nov 2024 Launch|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/240826-binw24in|work=Aeroroutes|access-date=26 August 2024|archive-date=26 August 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240826150604/https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/240826-binw24in|url-status=live}}{{cite press release|title=RB commence first flight to Chennai, India on 5th November 2024|url=https://www.flyroyalbrunei.com/brunei/en/rb-commence-first-flight-to-chennai-india-on-5th-november-2024/|work=Royal Brunei Airlines|access-date=1 September 2024|date=26 August 2024|archive-date=4 October 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241004121908/https://www.flyroyalbrunei.com/brunei/en/rb-commence-first-flight-to-chennai-india-on-5th-november-2024/|url-status=live}}

|SalamAir|Muscat{{cite news|url=https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/240621-ovjul24maa|title=Salamair schedules Chennai launch|work=Aeroroutes|date=21 June 2024|access-date=21 June 2024|archive-date=21 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240621055809/https://www.aeroroutes.com/eng/240621-ovjul24maa|url-status=live}}

|Scoot|Singapore{{cite news|last=Yadav|first=Paras|title=Singapore Airlines to Restructure Bengaluru, Chennai, Hyderabad Flights from Oct 29|url=https://www.news18.com/auto/singapore-airlines-to-restructure-bengaluru-chennai-hyderabad-flights-from-oct-29-8444281.html|work=News18|date=27 July 2023|access-date=28 July 2023|archive-date=28 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230728043728/https://www.news18.com/auto/singapore-airlines-to-restructure-bengaluru-chennai-hyderabad-flights-from-oct-29-8444281.html|url-status=live}}

|{{nowrap|Singapore Airlines}}|Singapore{{cite news|url=https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/singapore-airlines-to-redeploy-airbus-a380-superjumbo-to-india-from-january-351467|title=Singapore Airlines to redeploy Airbus A380 Superjumbo to India from January|work=The Tribune|date=17 December 2021|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=17 May 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230517164216/https://www.tribuneindia.com/news/nation/singapore-airlines-to-redeploy-airbus-a380-superjumbo-to-india-from-january-351467|url-status=live}}

|SpiceJet| Hyderabad,{{cite news| url=https://www.business-standard.com/markets/capital-market-news/spicejet-launches-new-udan-flights-connecting-shivamogga-with-chennai-and-hyderabad-124101000757_1.html| title=SpiceJet launches new UDAN flights connecting Shivamogga with Chennai and Hyderabad}} Kochi,{{cn|date=April 2025}} Madurai,{{cn|date=April 2025}} Pune,{{cite news| url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/spicejet-adds-24-new-flights-connecting-more-cities-for-travellers-this-summer/articleshow/119524105.cms?from=mdr|title=Spicejet domestic expansion}} Shimoga,{{cite news| url=https://www.business-standard.com/markets/capital-market-news/spicejet-launches-new-udan-flights-connecting-shivamogga-with-chennai-and-hyderabad-124101000757_1.html| title=SpiceJet launches new UDAN flights connecting Shivamogga with Chennai and Hyderabad}} Shirdi,{{cite news|url=https://www.livemint.com/companies/news/indigo-to-start-new-flights-to-shirdi-tickets-from-rs-2-112-11580442572258.html|title=IndiGo to start new flights to Shirdi|date=19 January 2020|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=Live Mint|archive-date=19 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240619121113/https://www.livemint.com/companies/news/indigo-to-start-new-flights-to-shirdi-tickets-from-rs-2-112-11580442572258.html|url-status=live}} Tuticorin{{cite news|url=https://economictimes.indiatimes.com/industry/transportation/airlines-/-aviation/spicejet-adds-24-new-flights-connecting-more-cities-for-travellers-this-summer/articleshow/119524105.cms?from=mdr|title=Spicejet domestic expansion}}

|SriLankan Airlines|Colombo–Bandaranaike{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindu.com/business/india-is-a-massive-opportunity-for-us-srilankan-airlines-ceo/article67737767.ece|title=India is a massive opportunity for us: SriLankan Airlines CEO|newspaper=The Hindu|date=14 January 2024|access-date=2 February 2024|archive-date=19 January 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240119053938/https://www.thehindu.com/business/india-is-a-massive-opportunity-for-us-srilankan-airlines-ceo/article67737767.ece|url-status=live}}

|{{nowrap|Thai AirAsia}}|Bangkok–Don Mueang,{{cite press release|url=https://newsroom.airasia.com/news/airasia-resuming-flights-to-7-countries-on-18-routes-this-april-fly-easy-with-no-quarantine-needed|title=AirAsia Resumes Flights to Seven Countries on 18 Routes this April! Fly Easy with No Quarantine|date=14 March 2022|access-date=26 March 2022|work=Air Asia|archive-date=18 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221018065647/https://newsroom.airasia.com/news/airasia-resuming-flights-to-7-countries-on-18-routes-this-april-fly-easy-with-no-quarantine-needed|url-status=live}} Phuket{{cite press release| url=https://newsroom.airasia.com/news/airasia-now-flies-direct-from-phuket-to-chennai-kolkata|title=Thai AirAsia begins Direct flight connection between Chennai and Phuket from 27 October 2024|work=Air Asia|access-date=29 July 2024|date=29 July 2024|archive-date=4 October 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241004121808/https://newsroom.airasia.com/news/airasia-now-flies-direct-from-phuket-to-chennai-kolkata#gsc.tab=0|url-status=live}}

|{{nowrap|Thai Airways International}}|Bangkok–Suvarnabhumi{{cite news|url=https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/2197755/thai-airways-to-resume-international-services|title=Thai Airways to resume international services|newspaper=Bangkok Post|date=14 October 2021|access-date=16 October 2021|archive-date=27 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230627180126/https://www.bangkokpost.com/business/2197755/thai-airways-to-resume-international-services|url-status=live |last1=Wancharoen |first1=Supoj }}

|{{nowrap|Thai Lion Air}}|Bangkok–Don Mueang{{cite web|url=https://www.livechennai.com/detailnews.asp?newsid=72901|title=Thai Lion Air to Launch Direct Flights Between Chennai and Bangkok from December 15}}

|{{nowrap|US-Bangla Airlines}}|Dhaka{{cite news|url=https://www.thedailystar.net/nrb/departure-arrival/airlines-more/news/us-bangla-increase-flights-dhaka-chennai-dhaka-male-routes-2978381|title=US-Bangla to increase flights on Dhaka-Chennai, Dhaka-Male routes|date=8 March 2022|access-date=1 June 2024|work=The Daily Star|archive-date=17 June 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230617170808/https://www.thedailystar.net/nrb/departure-arrival/airlines-more/news/us-bangla-increase-flights-dhaka-chennai-dhaka-male-routes-2978381|url-status=live}}

}}

= Cargo =

{{Airport-dest-list

|{{nowrap|Afcom Cargo}}|Bangkok–Suvarnabhumi{{cite news|url=https://www.itln.in/aviation/afcom-holdings-to-begin-commercial-operations-1354143|title=Afcom Holdings to begin commercial operations|date=2 January 2025|access-date=2 January 2025|work=Indian Transport and Logistics News}}

|Blue Dart Aviation{{cite web|url=https://www.forbesindia.com/article/explainers/airlines-in-india/88047/1|title=Airlines in India|work=Forbes|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=6 March 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240306115948/https://www.forbesindia.com/article/explainers/airlines-in-india/88047/1|url-status=live}}{{cite web|url=http://info.flightmapper.net/airline/BDA/MAA|title=Bluedart Chennai|publisher=Flightmapper|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=4 October 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241004122309/http://info.flightmapper.net/airline/BDA/MAA|url-status=live}}|Ahmedabad, Bengaluru, Delhi, Hyderabad, Kolkata, Mumbai

|Cathay Cargo|Hong Kong{{cite news|url=https://www.cnbctv18.com/travel/cathay-pacific-cargo-on-indian-aviation-opportunities-challenges-19078021.htm|title=Indian market has more opportunities than challenges: Cathay Cargo|date=19 February 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|work=CNBC TV18|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620121557/https://www.cnbctv18.com/travel/cathay-pacific-cargo-on-indian-aviation-opportunities-challenges-19078021.htm|url-status=live}}

|Ethiopian Cargo|Addis Ababa,{{cite news|url=https://www.aircargonews.net/airlines/ethiopian-grows-freighter-network-in-india/|title=Ethiopian grows freighter network in India|work=Air Cargo News|date=10 May 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620121557/https://www.aircargonews.net/airlines/ethiopian-grows-freighter-network-in-india/|url-status=live}} Hong Kong{{cite web|url=https://ethiopiancargo.azurewebsites.net/network/route-map|title=Route map|publisher=Ethiopian Cargo|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=30 September 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230930204312/https://ethiopiancargo.azurewebsites.net/network/route-map|url-status=live}}

|Etihad Cargo|Abu Dhabi,{{cite news|url=https://www.stattimes.com/air-cargo/etihad-cargo-adds-capacity-for-europe-asia-1349624|title=Etihad Cargo adds capacity for Europe, Asia|work=Stat Times|date=1 September 2023|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=11 February 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240211143624/https://www.stattimes.com/air-cargo/etihad-cargo-adds-capacity-for-europe-asia-1349624|url-status=live}} Shanghai–Pudong{{cite web|url=https://aviationsourcenews.com/airline/etihad-cargo-expands-operations-in-china-and-india-with-shanghai-chennai-direct/|title=Etihad Cargo expands operations in China and India with Shanghai-Chennai direct|work=Aviation Source News|date=7 December 2022|access-date=7 December 2022|archive-date=1 April 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230401105815/https://aviationsourcenews.com/airline/etihad-cargo-expands-operations-in-china-and-india-with-shanghai-chennai-direct/}}

|Emirates SkyCargo|Dubai–Al Maktoum{{cite news|url=https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/logistics/emirates-skycargo-to-expand-operations-in-india/article67849739.ece|title=Emirates SkyCargo to expand operations in India|date=15 February 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|newspaper=Business Line|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615132926/https://www.thehindubusinessline.com/economy/logistics/emirates-skycargo-to-expand-operations-in-india/article67849739.ece|url-status=live}}

|Hong Kong Air Cargo|Hong Kong{{cite news|url=https://indiashippingnews.com/hong-kong-air-cargo-announces-e-commerce-route-to-riyadh/|title=Hong Kong Air Cargo announces e-commerce route|date=5 March 2024|access-date=1 June 2024|work=India Shipping News|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615123758/https://indiashippingnews.com/hong-kong-air-cargo-announces-e-commerce-route-to-riyadh/|url-status=live}}

|K-Mile Air|Bangkok–Suvarnabhumi

|Longhao Airlines|Zhengzhou{{cite web|url=https://www.flightradar24.com/data/flights/gi4388|title=Aircraft data GI-4388|work=Flightradar24|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=4 October 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20241004122310/https://www.flightradar24.com/data/flights/gi4388|url-status=live}}

|Lufthansa Cargo|Dubai–Al Maktoum,{{cite web|url=http://info.flightmapper.net/airline/LH/MAA|title=Lufthansa Chennai|publisher=Flightmapper|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615132923/https://info.flightmapper.net/airline/LH/MAA|url-status=live}} Frankfurt,{{cite news|url=https://www.logisticsinsider.in/lufthansa-cargo-reinforcing-its-commitment-to-the-indian-market/|title=Lufthansa cargo reinforcing its commitment to Indian market|date=28 June 2023|access-date=1 June 2024|work=Logistics Insider|archive-date=3 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230703125708/https://www.logisticsinsider.in/lufthansa-cargo-reinforcing-its-commitment-to-the-indian-market/|url-status=live}} Hong Kong{{cite report|url=https://www.lufthansa-cargo.com/documents/20184/1559830/LHcargo_FlightSchedule.xlsx|title=Flight schedule|publisher=Lufthansa Cargo|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=26 October 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231026084133/https://www.lufthansa-cargo.com/documents/20184/1559830/LHcargo_FlightSchedule.xlsx|url-status=live}}

|MASkargo|Kuala Lumpur–International{{cite news|url=https://www.aircargonews.net/airlines/freighter-operator/maskargo-adds-bangalore-a330-freighter-link/|title=MASkargo adds Bangalore A330 freighter link|date=28 May 2015|access-date=1 June 2024|work=Air Cargo News|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615123756/https://www.aircargonews.net/airlines/freighter-operator/maskargo-adds-bangalore-a330-freighter-link/|url-status=live}}

|Oman Air Cargo|Muscat{{cite web|url=https://www.flightradar24.com/data/aircraft/a4o-bu|title=Aircraft data A4O-BU|work=Flightradar24|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620122100/https://www.flightradar24.com/data/aircraft/a4o-bu|url-status=live}}

|Qatar Airways Cargo|Doha{{cite news|url=https://www.stattimes.com/air-cargo/qatar-airways-cargo-celebrates-20-years-of-operations-1349855|title=Qatar Airways Cargo celebrates 20 years of operations|work=Stat Times|date=23 September 2023|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620122236/https://www.stattimes.com/air-cargo/qatar-airways-cargo-celebrates-20-years-of-operations-1349855|url-status=live}}

|SF Airlines|Changsha,{{cite web|url=https://info.flightmapper.net/route/SF_Airlines_O3_MAA_CSX|title=SF Airlines flights from Chennai (MAA) to Changsha (CSX)|publisher=Flightmapper|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620122101/https://info.flightmapper.net/route/SF_Airlines_O3_MAA_CSX|url-status=live}} Chengdu–Tianfu,{{cite news|url=https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/334077.html|title=China's SF Airlines launches Chengdu-Mumbai air cargo route|date=16 May 2023|access-date=1 June 2024|work=Silk Road Database|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620122105/https://en.imsilkroad.com/p/334077.html|url-status=live}} Ezhou,{{cite news|last=Kulisch|first=Eric|title=Etihad Airways, SF Airlines mutually assist cargo network expansions|url=https://www.freightwaves.com/news/etihad-airways-sf-airlines-mutually-assist-cargo-network-expansions|work=Freight Waves|date=1 May 2023|access-date=5 July 2023}} Shenzhen{{cite press release|title=SF Airlines Opens an International Air Cargo Line from Shenzhen to Chennai|url=https://www.sf-airlines.com/sfa/en/article_2010.html|work=SF Airlines|date=5 August 2018|access-date=5 July 2023|archive-date=8 July 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230708065951/https://www.sf-airlines.com/sfa/en/article_2010.html|url-status=live}}

|Sichuan Airlines Cargo|Chengdu–Tianfu{{cite news|title=Big relief for import-dependent Indian pharma as Sichuan Airlines resumes cargo services|url=https://www.businesstoday.in/latest/economy-politics/story/big-relief-for-import-dependent-india-pharma-as-sichuan-airlines-resumes-cargo-services-295634-2021-05-12|newspaper=Hindustan Times|date=12 May 2021|access-date=8 July 2023|archive-date=7 October 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20221007031147/https://www.businesstoday.in/latest/economy-politics/story/big-relief-for-import-dependent-india-pharma-as-sichuan-airlines-resumes-cargo-services-295634-2021-05-12|url-status=live}}

|Singapore Airlines Cargo|Amsterdam,{{cite news|url=https://mainlymiles.com/2020/07/23/analysis-singapore-airlines-cargo-only-flights-using-passenger-aircraft-in-july/|title=Singapore Airlines cargo-only flights using passenger aircraft in July|date=23 July 2020|access-date=1 June 2024|work=Mainly miles|archive-date=20 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240620122140/https://mainlymiles.com/2020/07/23/analysis-singapore-airlines-cargo-only-flights-using-passenger-aircraft-in-july/|url-status=live}} Sharjah, Singapore{{cite web|url=https://www.siacargo.com/network/|title=Network|publisher=SIA Cargo|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=14 May 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240514185716/https://www.siacargo.com/network/|url-status=live}}

|Turkish Cargo|Colombo–Bandaranaike,{{cite news|url=https://www.aircargonews.net/airlines/freighter-operator/turkish-cargo-launches-freighter-to-chennai/|title=Turkish Cargo launches freighter to Chennai|date=14 November 2016|access-date=1 June 2024|work=Air Cargo News|archive-date=15 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240615123757/https://www.aircargonews.net/airlines/freighter-operator/turkish-cargo-launches-freighter-to-chennai/|url-status=live}} Istanbul

|YTO Cargo Airlines|Guangzhou,{{cite news|url=https://www.aircargonews.net/airlines/freighter-operator/yto-express-adds-guangzhou-india-links/|title=YTO Express adds Guangzhou–India links|date=1 August 2023|access-date=1 June 2024|work=Air Cargo News|archive-date=1 November 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20231101110525/https://www.aircargonews.net/airlines/freighter-operator/yto-express-adds-guangzhou-india-links/|url-status=live}} Kunming, Nanning

}}

Statistics

{{Airport-Statistics|iata=MAA}}

class="wikitable sortable" style="font-size: 95%"

|+Busiest domestic routes from MAA (2023–24){{cite report|title=City pair wise passenger traffic statistics|url=https://www.dgca.gov.in/digigov-portal/?page=jsp/dgca/InventoryList/dataReports/aviationDataStatistics/airTransport/domestic/yearly/28/Normal/TABLE%205.01%20(INDIAN%20CITY-WISE%20PASSENGER%20TRAFFIC).pdf&mainundefined|access-date=28 March 2025|publisher=Directorate General of Civil Aviation|url-status=live}}

Rank

! Airport

! Carriers

! Departing passengers

style="text-align:center;"|1

|Mumbai, Maharashtra

|Air India, Akasa Air, IndiGo

|1,235,465

style="text-align:center;"|2

|Delhi

|Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet

|1,162,421

style="text-align:center;"|3

|Bengaluru, Karnataka

|Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo

|655,054

style="text-align:center;"|4

|Hyderabad, Telangana

|Air India, Air India Express, Alliance Air, IndiGo, SpiceJet

|644,863

style="text-align:center;"|5

|Kolkata, West Bengal

|Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo

|428,257

style="text-align:center;"|6

|Coimbatore, Tamil Nadu

|Air India, IndiGo

|419,001

style="text-align:center;"|7

|Pune, Maharashtra

|Air India Express, IndiGo, SpiceJet

|291,171

style="text-align:center;"|8

|Kochi, Kerala

|Air India Express, IndiGo, SpiceJet

|277,367

style="text-align:center;"|9

|Port Blair, Andaman and Nicobar

|Air India Express, Akasa Air, IndiGo, SpiceJet

|252,302

style="text-align:center;"|10

|Madurai, Tamil Nadu

|Air India, IndiGo, SpiceJet

|203,804

class="wikitable sortable" style="font-size: 95%"

|+Busiest international routes from MAA (2023–24){{cite report|title=International passenger statistics|url=https://www.dgca.gov.in/digigov-portal/?page=jsp/dgca/InventoryList/dataReports/aviationDataStatistics/airTransport/domestic/yearly/28/Normal/7.06%20(INTERNATIONAL%20OPERATIONS).pdf&mainundefined|access-date=28 December 2023|publisher=Directorate General of Civil Aviation|url-status=live}}

Rank

! Airport

! Carriers

! Departing passengers

style="text-align:center;"|1

|{{flagicon|UAE}} Dubai, United Arab Emirates

|Air India, Emirates, IndiGo

|501,938

style="text-align:center;"|2

|{{flagicon|SIN}} Singapore

|Air India, Air India Express, IndiGo, Scoot, Singapore Airlines

|438,218

style="text-align:center;"|3

|{{flagicon|Sri Lanka}} Colombo-Bandaranaike, Sri Lanka

|Air India, FitsAir, IndiGo, SriLankan Airlines

|398,469

style="text-align:center;"|4

|{{flagicon|Malaysia}} Kuala Lumpur, Malaysia

|Air Asia, IndiGo, Malaysia Airlines

|318,567

style="text-align:center;"|5

|{{flagicon|UAE}} Abu Dhabi, United Arab Emirates

|Air Arabia, Etihad Airways, IndiGo

|280,907

style="text-align:center;"|6

|{{flagicon|QAT}} Doha, Qatar

|IndiGo, Qatar Airways

|152,972

style="text-align:center;"|7

|{{flagicon|KUW}} Kuwait City, Kuwait

|IndiGo, Jazeera Airways, Kuwait Airways

|146,134

style="text-align:center;"|8

|{{flagicon|Oman}} Muscat, Oman

|Air India Express, Oman Air, SalamAir

|132,349

style="text-align:center;"|9

|{{flagicon|Thailand}} Bangkok–Suvarnabhumi, Thailand

|IndiGo, Thai Airways International

|83,961

style="text-align:center;"|10

|{{flagicon|Germany}} Frankfurt, Germany

|Lufthansa

|76,886

Connectivity

File:Pallavaram Hill Runway NE Chennai Airport Aug22 A7C 02296.jpg station as seen from the airport]]

The airport is situated on the Grand Southern Trunk Road (National Highway 32) with a flyover at the entrance of the airport separating traffic.{{cite news|title=Flyover near airport opened|date=20 October 2008|url=http://www.hindu.com/2008/10/20/stories/2008102057190100.htm|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20081020131311/http://www.hindu.com/2008/10/20/stories/2008102057190100.htm|archive-date=20 October 2008|newspaper=The Hindu|access-date=14 January 2012}} Public bus transport is handled by Metropolitan Transport Corporation (MTC) of the state-run Tamil Nadu State Transport Corporation (TNSTC).{{cite report|url=https://www.tnstc.in/innerHtmls/pdf/Tamil%20Nadu%20STUs-pages.pdf|title=Tamil Nadu STUs|publisher=TNSTC|access-date=1 November 2023|archive-date=31 March 2023|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20230331121802/https://www.tnstc.in/innerHtmls/pdf/Tamil%20Nadu%20STUs-pages.pdf|url-status=live}} The airport is served by several taxi and rental car companies. In addition, ride-sharing companies Ola Cabs and Uber operate outside the terminal.{{cite web|url=https://www.aai.aero/en/airports/transport-details/chennai/Taxi|title=Transport details, Taxi|publisher=Airports Authority of India|access-date=1 June 2024|archive-date=14 June 2024|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20240614182248/https://www.aai.aero/en/airports/transport-details/chennai/Taxi|url-status=live}}

The airport is served by Tirusulam railway station on the Suburban railway network. The airport metro station of the Chennai Metro connects the airport.{{cite news|last=Sridhar|first=Asha|title=Work on airport metro station to begin soon|newspaper=The Hindu|date=24 May 2012|url=http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/article3449812.ece|access-date=9 November 2012|archive-date=28 July 2012|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20120728033617/http://www.thehindu.com/news/cities/chennai/article3449812.ece|url-status=live }} Shuttle services between the metro station and the terminals are provided for the passengers.{{cite news|url=http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Chennai-Battery-cars-to-shuttle-between-metro-airport/articleshow/54635390.cms|title=Chennai: Battery cars to shuttle between metro, airport|newspaper=The Times of India|date=2 October 2016|access-date=14 October 2016|archive-date=5 October 2016|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20161005092102/http://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/Chennai-Battery-cars-to-shuttle-between-metro-airport/articleshow/54635390.cms|url-status=live}} The concourse of the metro station is directly linked to the passenger terminals.{{cite news|last=Ayyappan|first=V.|title=AAI and CMRL firmed up to build the airport metro station|location=Chennai|date=9 March 2012|url=https://timesofindia.indiatimes.com/city/chennai/AAI-and-CMRL-firmed-up-to-build-the-airport-metro-station/articleshow/12190948.cms|archive-url=https://archive.today/20130216070034/http://articles.timesofindia.indiatimes.com/2012-03-09/chennai/31139420_1_metro-station-cmrl-passenger-terminals|url-status=live|archive-date=16 February 2013|newspaper=The Times of India|access-date=6 January 2013}} The Tirusulam suburban train station is also integrated with the metro station and the airport.{{cite news|last=Janardhanan|first=Arun|title=Corridor to connect airport with stations|newspaper=The Times of India|date=23 September 2011|url=http://epaper.timesofindia.com/Default/Scripting/ArticleWin.asp?From=Archive&Source=Page&Skin=TOINEW&BaseHref=TOICH/2011/09/23&PageLabel=2&EntityId=Ar00202&ViewMode=HTML|access-date=13 January 2012|archive-date=22 June 2017|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20170622120656/http://epaper.timesofindia.com/Default/Scripting/ArticleWin.asp?From=Archive&Source=Page&Skin=TOINEW&BaseHref=TOICH%2F2011%2F09%2F23&PageLabel=2&EntityId=Ar00202&ViewMode=HTML}}

Awards

The airport was ranked in the third place as the Best Airport by Size in the category of 15–25 million passengers per annum by Airports Council International in 2017. It was awarded as the Best Tourist Friendly Airport by Tamil Nadu Tourism from the Ministry of Tourism two consecutive times, in 2016 and 2018. It was awarded the Gold Award by the survey of RoSPA Health and Safety Awards for ensuring proper hygienic conditions and safety from accidents and incidents, as well as the Sword of Honour by the British Safety Council for ensuring safety and security, both for the airport's Phase-II of modernisation, in 2020. It was ranked in the eighth place among the most punctual airports in the world, globally, by ensuring timely takeoffs and landings to and from the airport, in 2021 by Cirium, an aviation data analytics company.{{cite web|title=Airport Achievements|url=https://www.aai.aero/en/airports/achievement/chennai|website=Airports Authority of India|access-date=8 March 2023|archive-date=23 August 2022|archive-url=https://web.archive.org/web/20220823214225/https://www.aai.aero/en/airports/achievement/chennai|url-status=live}}

See also

References

{{reflist}}