Chennai International Airport (MAA)

Overview

The fourth-busiest airport in India, Chennai International Airport (formerly known as Madras) is located in Tirusulam, just 4.3 miles (7km) south of Chennai in southern India. The airport is a bustling portal for visitors to India's southern states: Goa, Tamil Nadu, Karkataka and Kerala.

Passengers flying in to Chennai International Airport should be prepared for organised chaos with crowds of touts, taxi-wallahs and beggars milling around. Despite this daunting introduction to India, however, Chennai International is a popular airport, with flights available to dozens of major airports in Asia and Europe.

Location

The airport is located 4.3 miles (7km) south of Chennai's city centre

Getting to the city

There are many options for transfer from the airport, including taxis, auto-rickshaw, bus and train.

Time

GMT +5.5

Contacts

+91 44 2256 0551

Car rental

Car rental companies operate at the airport, but it's recommended that foreigners avoid driving on India's challenging roads. Visitors intent on renting cars should hire a local driver as well.

Airport Taxis

Travellers should always use prepaid taxis to get into the city from the airport; it's the safest way to ensure that they reach their destination without being overcharged. Numerous taxi companies have counters in the arrivals section of Chennai International Airport.

Transfer between terminals

A link building connects the international and domestic terminals, while different areas of the terminals are accessible via aerobridges and pedestrian walkways.

Facilities

Airport facilities include ATMs, as well as currency exchange offices, a lost and found office and conferencing facilities. Other facilities include airline lounges, medical facilities, a duty-free shop, a few snack kiosks and vending machines, and basic access and facilities for disabled passengers.

Parking

There is short and long-stay parking for cars and buses at Chennai International Airport.

Website

www.chennaiairport.com

Internet

Chennai International Airport has free WiFi access in the terminal buildings.

Business Lounges

The airport has a Communication Centre in the arrivals hall with copy and fax services, video phones, internet terminals, and conference rooms.

Chennai Airport Taxis: the taxi fares above are intended as a guideline only.