Tue May 06 17:18:12 UTC 2025: ## Chennai Airport Lags Behind as Passenger Traffic Growth Stalls
**CHENNAI, INDIA (May 6, 2025)** – Chennai’s airport is struggling to keep pace with its counterparts in Bengaluru and Hyderabad, registering significantly lower passenger traffic growth and facing criticism over infrastructure and services. While Hyderabad saw a 17.3% increase in passenger traffic in March, and Bengaluru a 12.7% rise, Chennai managed only 7.2%, dropping it to sixth place nationally.
Despite a ₹2,467 crore investment by the Airports Authority of India (AAI) in modernization, including a new international terminal under construction, passengers and industry experts cite connectivity, infrastructure upgrades, and maintenance as major shortcomings. S. Jeyasekaran of the Travel Agents Association of India (TAAI) points to Bengaluru and Hyderabad’s superior infrastructure attracting more airlines and routes. He notes that Chennai passengers often fly through these cities for international connections, diverting traffic away from the Chennai airport.
Passengers complain about limited food and shopping options, contrasting sharply with the experience at privatized airports like Mumbai’s. Difficulties accessing cabs from the multi-level car park, requiring buggy rides or long walks, are also a major source of frustration. Social media posts highlight further issues, including the lack of free Wi-Fi for international passengers.
While AAI officials acknowledge the challenges and cite limited land availability, they maintain efforts to improve Wi-Fi access and cab access. They also state that they are actively seeking new flight routes to destinations like Australia and Japan, but ultimately, the decision rests with the Ministry of Civil Aviation. The airport’s future hinges on addressing these issues to regain its competitive position and attract more passengers.
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