Chennai Airport to Handle 35 Million Passengers Annually by April 2027

Chennai airport is expected to handle up to 35 million passengers annually after the newly constructed Terminal 3 becomes operational by April 2027, airport director Raja Kishore said.

The airport currently handles around 23 million passengers a year through its domestic and international terminals, while its existing annual capacity is around 30 million passengers.

According to Kishore, Terminal 3 is currently under construction and is expected to be completed by April 2027. Once operational, the new terminal will add around 5 million passengers to the airport’s annual capacity, taking the overall capacity to 35 million passengers per year.

Chennai Airport Expansion Within Existing Premises

The airport director said the expansion work is being carried out within the existing airport premises. At present, there are no plans to remove the airport compound wall and expand the airport into surrounding areas.

However, Chennai airport is planning to expand its cargo facilities as part of its future development plans.

Stormwater Drain Work Delayed

The construction of a major stormwater drain near the airport runways has faced delays due to aviation safety requirements and construction challenges.

Chennai airport has two runways, and aviation safety regulations require a 140-metre clear area from the runway. The stormwater drain was initially planned at a distance of 110 metres but is now being realigned to meet the required safety standards.

More than 375 flights operate from Chennai airport every day, in addition to cargo and other services. Therefore, the drain construction has to be carried out without disrupting flight operations.

The use of cranes in the runway area is also restricted, making certain construction activities more difficult. Airport authorities said safety and security remain the main priorities, while the stormwater drain project continues within the airport premises.

No Immediate Plan to Remove Airport Compound Wall

Kishore said removing the airport compound wall to allow rainwater to flow out could result in water from surrounding areas, including Kaul Bazaar, entering the airport premises.

As a result, there is currently no immediate plan to remove the compound wall or expand the airport beyond its existing premises.

Chennai Airport Monkey Incident

Regarding a monkey that entered the airport premises on Tuesday, Kishore said security measures are in place to prevent animals from entering the airport.

Airport officials are examining CCTV footage to determine how the monkey entetered the premises. The Forest Department has also been informed and will handle the capture and removal of the animal.

Airport personnel are not permitted to catch such animals directly, and the Forest Department is responsible for handling the situation.

Sanitary Napkin Vending Machines at Chennai Airport

Chennai airport is also improving passenger facilities by installing sanitary napkin vending machines in all 36 women’s toilets.

So far, 10 machines have been installed, while the remaining 26 machines are expected to be installed by October 15.

Several other development and passenger-facility projects are also currently under way at Chennai airport.