Chennai Airport Information

Chennai International Airport (MAA)

• (91)44 2256-0661 (Domestic terminal)
  
• (91)44 2256-0551 (International terminal)

Website: www.airportsindia.org.in/chennaiNear Pallavaram, 14.5 kilometers (9 miles) south of the city.20-30 minutes.Chennai airport is the main hub for arrivals and departures in south India. It services around 8 million passengers a year, over half of which are flying domestically. The airport is operated by the government run Airports Authority of India. Its condition is basic but satisfactory due to modernization works that have been undertaken in the past. A further extensive upgrade is planned to be carried out by 2011.Chennai airport consists of two interconnected terminals:

• Kamaraj Terminal handles domestic flights.
• Anna Terminal handles international flights.

Currently, Chennai airport has a limited range of standard amenities such as banks, restaurants, and shops. Duty free shopping is available but there isn't much to choose from. There's also a conference lounge and business facilities. Wireless internet is available for free at certain spots in the terminals.Chennai airport is well connected in terms of transport. The best way to get to the city center is by taking a prepaid taxi from the arrivals terminal (the booth nearest to the door is government regulated). The fares are different from the domestic and international terminals, although it will cost around 300 rupees to Egmore. It's also possible to take the train. There's a train station (Tirusulam) across the road not far from the airport, and suburban trains run from there to Egmore Station. Travel time is around 40 minutes. Alternatively, Metropolitan Transport Corporation bus services are also available.Chennai airport is usually always crowded. Outside the airport you'll be greeted by a hoard of beggars, taxi drivers, and other people who'll try to carry your luggage or take you somewhere. Do prepare yourself for this as it can be very overwhelming, and it's easy to get yourself or your luggage lost in the crowd. When departing, lines for the check-in counters can be very long and slow during busy times, so do arrive at the airport as early as possible.

Chennai airport has retiring rooms for passengers who want to rest between flights. You should inquire about these immediately after you arrive as they're often full. As you're exiting the international arrivals area, turn left. The retiring rooms are located between the international and domestic terminals. Bookings can be made through the airport manager.

Alternatively, there are a couple of hotels located around 3 kilometers (2 miles) from the airport. These are:

• Radisson Hotel -- a deluxe five star business hotel.
• Hotel Mars -- a cheaper option, with air conditioned rooms starting from 1,400 rupees ($30) plus tax. Breakfast and airport pickup included.