MAA Airport Insights & Guide
Key MAA Airport Topics:
- Frequent Flier Tips
- Navigating the Terminals
- Connecting Between Terminals
- Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
- Parking Facilities & Options
- Transportation Options
- Airport Hotels
- Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
- Passenger Services
- Flight Status Info
- Airport Facts & Stats
- Airport History
- Airport Contact Information
- Frequently Asked Questions
Getting to Know MAA Airport
Discover Chennai Airport, South India's premier hub, welcoming millions to its unique blend of rich cultural ambiance and modern amenities. Notably, MAA is celebrated for its stunning Rajiv Gandhi Memorial, enhancing travelers' experience with a touch of history.
For a streamlined journey through MAA, our concise guide offers essential insights on flight updates, terminal information, parking, dining, and shopping. Ideal for both new and frequent flyers. Dive deeper into airport intricacies with the Comprehensive Airport Guide at iFly.
iFly Tip: Learn the best strategies for managing different age groups during air travel on our Flying with Children page.
Navigating MAA's Terminals
MAA has two terminals - Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. Terminal 1 has a total of 14 gates and is used by domestic airlines such as IndiGo, SpiceJet, and GoAir. Terminal 2 has a total of 10 gates and is used by international airlines such as Emirates, British Airways, and Air Asia.
When arriving at the airport, it is important to check which terminal your airline is using before heading to the airport. Both terminals are connected by a shuttle bus service, which runs every 20 minutes and takes about 15 minutes to travel between the terminals.
Inside the terminals, there are plenty of amenities available for travelers. Both terminals have a variety of food and beverage options, ranging from fast food to sit-down restaurants. There are also several shops selling souvenirs, books, and duty-free items. For those in need of currency exchange or banking services, there are several banks and ATMs located throughout the terminals.
Use our interactive airport map to locate food, services, and airline departure gates.
Connecting Between Terminals
MAA Airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 and Terminal 2. These terminals are located approximately 5 kilometers apart from each other. Passengers can travel between the two terminals by shuttle bus, which runs every 20 minutes and takes around 15-20 minutes to reach the other terminal. The shuttle bus service is available 24/7, making it easy for passengers to travel between terminals at any time of the day.
If you prefer to walk, it is possible to do so, but it will take around 45-50 minutes to walk between the two terminals. Keep in mind that walking may not be the best option if you have a lot of luggage or if you are short on time.
Tips from MAA Frequent Flyers
To help make your experience at Chennai International Airport as smooth and enjoyable as possible, we’ve gathered the best advice and tips from MAA-based frequent travelers, flight attendants, pilots, and airport staff. Their first-hand insights are sure to provide you with valuable guidance. Here’s what they have to say:
Navigating the Terminals
"If you're flying domestically, head straight to Terminal 1. It's a breeze to navigate, and the shuttle bus between terminals is quite efficient if you need to switch." — Arjun K., Tambaram, December 2023
"The signage at MAA is pretty straightforward. Just follow the signs for your terminal, and if in doubt, the staff are always helpful." — Priya S., Avadi, February 2024
Getting To/From the City
"The metro is a fantastic way to get into the city from the airport. It's affordable and avoids the traffic jams that are common in Chennai." — Ramesh V., Kanchipuram, March 2024
"I usually book a cab through an app right after landing. It's more reliable than waiting for a taxi, especially during peak hours." — Meera J., Chengalpattu, June 2024
Parking
"If you're picking someone up, use the cell phone waiting area. It's convenient and free, so you don't have to circle around endlessly." — Sanjay P., Sriperumbudur, April 2024
"Long-term parking is quite safe and reasonably priced. Just make sure to park in a covered area if you're leaving your car for more than a few days." — Kavitha N., Thiruvallur, August 2024
Inside the Airport
"For a quick bite, I recommend Cafe Coffee Day in the Domestic Terminal. It's a nice spot to relax before your flight." — Anjali R., Mahabalipuram, July 2024
"Don't miss the Idli Factory if you love South Indian food. It's a great way to get a taste of local cuisine before you fly." — Vikram T., Poonamallee, October 2024
Avoiding Delays and Stress
"Always check the flight status online before heading to the airport. Delays are quite common, and being informed helps you plan better." — Deepak M., Vellore, May 2024
"Arrive at least two hours early for international flights. Security can be slow, especially during peak times." — Sahana L., Guduvancheri, September 2024
iFly Tip: Plan your airport arrival with confidence using our airport wait times guide.
Picking Up and Dropping Off Passengers
At MAA, passengers can be picked up and dropped off at the designated curbside areas outside each terminal. However, it is important to note that there are strict parking restrictions in place to ensure the safety and efficiency of airport operations. Drivers are not allowed to park or leave their vehicles unattended at the curbside areas. Violators may be subject to fines or towing.
If you are picking up passengers, it is recommended to use the cell-phone waiting areas located near each terminal. These areas provide a convenient and free option for drivers to wait until their passengers are ready to be picked up. Simply park your vehicle and wait until you receive a call or message from your passenger indicating that they are ready to be picked up. Once you receive the message, you can proceed to the curbside area to pick up your passenger.
Parking Facilities & Options
MAA Airport offers several parking options for travelers. The airport has both covered and uncovered parking options available for short-term and long-term parking needs. The parking lots and garages are conveniently located near the airport terminals, making it easy for travelers to access them.
In addition to the on-site parking options, the airport also has a cell phone waiting area for those who are picking up arriving passengers. This area is located just a few minutes away from the terminal and allows drivers to wait for their passengers without having to pay for parking.
For those who require handicapped parking, there are designated spots available in all of the airport parking lots and garages. These spots are located close to the terminal entrances for easy access.
Off-airport parking is also available near the airport. This is an economical option for travelers who are looking to save money on parking fees. The off-airport parking lots offer shuttle service to and from the airport terminals, making it a convenient option for travelers.
Get details about Chennai Madras Airport parking options and rates, along with more economical off-airport parking here.
Transportation Options
Chennai Airport offers a variety of ground transportation options for travelers.
- Car rental facilities are available at the airport, with major providers such as Avis, Hertz, and Budget offering services. Visitors can easily rent a car and explore the city at their own pace. Rental cars are a convenient choice for those wanting flexibility in their travel plans.
- Taxi services are also available at the airport, with designated drop-off areas outside the terminal. Fares are based on distance traveled and can vary depending on the time of day. It is recommended to negotiate the fare with the driver before starting the journey.
- Shared ride services are available for travelers looking for a more affordable option. Pickup areas are located outside the terminal, and restrictions may apply depending on the service provider. It is recommended to check with the provider for any restrictions before booking.
- Airport shuttles are a convenient option for travelers, with pickup areas located outside the terminal. Fares vary depending on the destination and the service provider. It is recommended to book in advance to ensure availability.
- For those looking for a budget-friendly option, public transportation is available at the airport. Buses and trains provide service to various locations in the city, with fares starting at a low price. It is recommended to check the schedule and route before starting the journey.
iFly Tip: Discover how pilots navigate complex flight stages with precision in our cockpit operation insights.
Airport Hotels
Whether you're catching an early flight or arriving late, the right hotel can make all the difference in your travel experience. Our guide presents a selection of hotels that offer close proximity to the airport and easy access to key attractions. From tranquil gardens and spacious terraces to complimentary Wi-Fi and parking, these hotels cater to every traveler's needs. Explore options like HOTEL SAlBALA RESIDENCY, MADRASl HOTEL CHENNAI, PLEASANT STAYS - NEAR AIRPORT, AIRPORT HOTEL - SAlBALA INN, and THE DREAM STAYS - NEAR AIRPORT, all situated within a mile of the airport. Other options include Comfort Deluxe Stay, Crossway Parklane Airport Hotel Chennai, HOTEL SAIBALA lNN, HOTEL SAI INN A/C, and GRACE RESIDENCY. Ready to book now? View all Chennai Airport Hotels including rates, on a map.
Dining, Shopping & Enjoying the Airport
The airport offers a variety of dining and shopping options for travelers. If you're looking for a quick bite, head to Cafe Coffee Day or Subway, both located in the Domestic Terminal. For a more substantial meal, try the South Indian cuisine at Idli Factory, also located in the Domestic Terminal. If you're in the International Terminal, check out the Indian and Continental options at Tiffin Center or the vegetarian fare at Sangeetha Restaurant.
When it comes to shopping, Chennai Madras Airport has a range of stores to choose from. For souvenirs and gifts, head to Hidesign or Naidu Hall, both located in the Domestic Terminal. If you're looking for electronics or travel accessories, check out the Reliance Digital or WHSmith stores in the International Terminal.
The locations of all food, shops, and services at Chennai Airport can be found using iFly's interactive map. For a complete list of restaurants, bars, shops, and news stands, check your options here.
Passenger Services
MAA is a modern airport that provides a range of services to make your travel experience comfortable and hassle-free. Here are some of the services available to passengers:
Wifi Access: Complimentary Wi-Fi is available throughout the airport, so you can stay connected with your loved ones or catch up on work while waiting for your flight.
Lost and Found: If you lose an item at the airport, you can contact the Lost and Found office located in the Arrivals area. The staff will do their best to help you locate your lost item.
Children's Areas: The airport has dedicated play areas for children, so they can burn off some energy before their flight. These areas are located in both the Domestic and International terminals.
Special-Needs Services: MAA Airport is committed to providing assistance to passengers with special needs. Wheelchairs, special seating arrangements, and other assistance can be arranged by contacting the airline or airport staff in advance.
Banking: There are several banks and ATMs located throughout the airport, so you can easily access cash or banking services.
Medical Help: If you require medical assistance, there is a medical center located in the Domestic terminal. Trained medical staff are available 24/7 to provide assistance.
Flight Status Info
When it comes to air travel, staying up-to-date on flight status is crucial for a smooth journey. At the airport, there are several ways for travelers to check the status of their flight.
One of the easiest ways is to use the in-airport flight displays (FIDS) located throughout the terminal. These displays provide real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information. Simply find your flight number on the display and check the status.
Another convenient option is to download the mobile app of your airline. Most airlines offer mobile apps that allow passengers to receive alerts about departure delays, cancelations, or gate changes via text, email, or push notifications. This way, you can stay informed about any changes to your flight status without having to constantly check the airport displays.
Passengers can also check the status of their flight departure at Chennai Madras Airport by visiting the flight departures page on ifly.com, which provides real-time updates on flight departures, delays, and gate information.
Airport Facts & Stats
- Location: Chennai International Airport (MAA) is located in Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India.
- Terminals: The airport has two terminals: Terminal 1 for domestic flights and Terminal 2 for international flights.
- Airlines Served: Major airlines include IndiGo, Air India, and Emirates. For a full list of airlines, visit the MAA Airlines Served page.
- Passenger Traffic: Chennai Airport handles approximately 50,000 passengers daily.
- Daily Flights: The airport sees around 400 aircraft movements daily.
- Annual Traffic: On average, MAA handles around 15 million passengers annually.
- Destinations: The airport serves 21 domestic and 21 international destinations.
- Top International Destinations: Dubai, Singapore, Colombo, Kuala Lumpur, and Abu Dhabi.
- Hub Status: Chennai Airport is a hub for IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Alliance Air.
Airport History
Chennai Madras Airport, now known as Chennai International Airport, is located in the city of Chennai, Tamil Nadu, India. It is the fourth busiest airport in India and handles both domestic and international flights.
Here is a brief history of the airport:
- 1932: The airport was established as a military airfield known as Madras Aerodrome.
- 1952: The airport was opened for civilian use, and commercial flights began operating.
- 1985: A new terminal building was constructed to handle the increasing passenger traffic.
- 2001: The airport was renamed as Chennai International Airport.
- 2012: A new international terminal was opened, which increased the airport's capacity to handle more passengers.
- 2019: The airport was ranked as the fourth best airport in India by the Airports Council International.
Today, Chennai International Airport serves as an important gateway to South India and is a hub for several airlines, including Air India, IndiGo, and SpiceJet.
Airport Contact Information
For more information about Chennai International Airport, please refer to the following contact details:
- IATA Code: MAA
- Airport Website
- Phone: +91 44 2256 0551
- Email: [email protected]
- Mailing Address: Chennai International Airport, GST Road, Meenambakkam, Chennai, Tamil Nadu 600027, India
Note that the contact information provided here is subject to change by the airport operator(s).
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Chennai Madras Airport Q&A
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