Chennai Airport Phase-2 Expansion Delayed; New Terminal Likely by 2027

The second phase of Chennai airport’s expansion project has been delayed, with the new terminal now expected to open only by early 2027.

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) is carrying out the Phase-2 work at a cost of Rs 1,207 crore as part of the airport’s larger modernization plan. The expansion aims to handle the steady rise in passenger traffic, which crossed 3 crore passengers in 2025.

The new terminal will include modern facilities such as additional check-in counters, aerobridges, baggage scanners, and upgraded luggage handling systems. Once completed, Chennai airport’s annual passenger capacity is expected to increase to more than 3.5 crore.

Officials said the project was delayed after some contractors withdrew due to rising construction material costs. At present, only around 40% of the work has been completed.

AAI has now brought in new contractors and is aiming to finish construction by the end of 2026, with operations likely to begin by March 2027.

Authorities also said carrying out expansion work inside a fully functioning airport is a challenging process, as regular flight and passenger services must continue without disruption.