Chennai Airport Guide
Chennai International Airport (IATA: MAA) is the main airport serving Chennai and Tamil Nadu. Located in Meenambakkam, approximately 21 kilometres southwest of the city centre, it is India's third busiest airport by passenger traffic and a major gateway for domestic and international travel.
Terminals
Terminal 1 (Domestic)
Handles all domestic flights. Airlines include IndiGo, Air India, SpiceJet, Vistara, and Akasa Air. Renovated and expanded in recent years with improved check-in and security facilities.
Terminal 4 (International)
Handles international flights and some international carrier domestic routes. Airlines include Emirates, Singapore Airlines, Air India, SriLankan Airlines, and Malaysia Airlines. Duty-free shopping available in departure area.
Both terminals are connected by a free shuttle bus (5-minute ride) and a covered walkway (10-minute walk).
Getting To & From the Airport
MChennai Metro (Recommended)
The Airport Metro station is on the Blue Line. Direct trains to Guindy (10 min), Nandanam (18 min), Egmore (30 min), and central Chennai. Fare: 20-70 rupees. Trains run 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM at 5-10 minute intervals.
Pre-paid Taxi
Pre-paid taxi counters are located outside both arrival halls. Fixed rates by destination: T. Nagar (~500), Adyar (~550), Anna Nagar (~600), Mylapore (~550), OMR/IT Corridor (~700-900). App-based taxis (Ola, Uber) are available from the pickup zone outside arrivals, typically 10-20% cheaper than pre-paid.
MTC Bus
Several MTC routes connect the airport to the city. Route 70 runs to Broadway via Guindy and T. Nagar. Route 18C connects to Tambaram. Fares are under 30 rupees. Buses operate from early morning to late evening but can be crowded during peak hours.
Suburban Train
Tirusulam railway station is a 5-minute walk from the domestic terminal. Suburban trains connect to Tambaram, Chromepet, Guindy, Mambalam, Egmore, and Beach. Very affordable (5-15 rupees) but can be crowded.
Practical Tips
- Arrive 2 hours before domestic flights and 3 hours before international flights. Security queues can be long during peak hours.
- Free Wi-Fi is available for 45 minutes in both terminals. Connect via the "Chennai Airport" network.
- SIM cards (Airtel, Jio) are available at counters in the international arrivals hall for incoming visitors.
- Currency exchange counters and ATMs are available in both terminals, including post-security areas.
- If arriving late at night (after 11 PM when metro stops), pre-book an app-based taxi or use the pre-paid counter.
Location
Related Pages
Frequently Asked Questions
How do I get from Chennai Airport to the city centre?
The fastest option is Chennai Metro (Airport station on the Blue Line), which connects directly to central areas like Guindy, Nandanam, and Egmore in 20-40 minutes. Pre-paid taxis are available outside both terminals, costing 400-800 rupees to most city areas. MTC buses (routes 70, 70A, 18C) connect the airport to various parts of the city for under 30 rupees.
Does Chennai Airport have two terminals?
Yes. Terminal 1 (domestic) handles all domestic flights. Terminal 4 (international) handles international departures and arrivals. Both terminals are connected by a free shuttle bus and are within walking distance via a covered walkway.
Is there a metro station at Chennai Airport?
Yes. The Chennai Airport Metro station is on the Blue Line (Wimco Nagar to Airport). It is located between the domestic and international terminals. Trains run from approximately 5:30 AM to 11:00 PM.