Chennai Madras (Meenambakkam) International Airport (MAA)

Overview

The third busiest airport in India, Chennai Madras International Airport 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.

Already handling more than 12 million passengers each year, the airport is currently expanding to double its capacity by mid-2012. 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 Airport 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 11 246 32950

Car rental

Car rentals are provided by Avis, Hertz and Budget. You'll find their desks in the arrivals area. You will need an International Drivers' Permit to rent a car - but it really, really isn't recommended, especially if you've never driven in India before.

Airport Taxis

Always use prepaid taxis to get into the city from the airport; it's the safest way to ensure that you reach your destination without being overcharged. Numerous taxi companies have counters in the arrivals section of Chennai International Airport. Aviation Express have the best reputation, and sometimes offer a choice of vehicles. Visitors must ensure that they have small notes or coins for a tip.

Transfer between terminals

Chennai International Airport is comprised of Anna International Terminal (AIT), Kamaraj Domestic Terminal (KDT), and a cargo terminal. 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, a Communication Centre located offering internet browsing, video phones and conferencing facilities. Other facilities include airline lounges, medical facilities, a duty-free shop, a few snack kiosks and vending machines, as well as basic access and facilities for disabled passengers.

Parking

There is short- and long-stay parking available for 500 cars and buses at Chennai International Airport. The parking lot is located right outside the terminal buildings.

Website

www.chennaiairport.com

Internet

Chennai Madras 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.