August 1, 2025 —
Chennai International Airport recorded an 8.23% increase in passenger traffic during the first five months of 2025, according to data released by the Airports Authority of India (AAI).
Between January and May 2025, the airport handled approximately 11.8 million passengers, compared to 10.9 million during the same period in 2024. The growth is attributed to increased demand for both domestic and international travel, improved airline connectivity, and expanded airport infrastructure.
Domestic travel accounted for nearly 70% of total passenger movement during the period. Popular routes included Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad. On the international front, high load factors were reported on routes to Dubai, Singapore, Colombo, and Kuala Lumpur. New services to Bangkok and Frankfurt also contributed to the increase in international traffic.
The passenger growth follows the completion of the New Integrated Terminal (T2) under the second phase of the airport’s modernization project. The expanded terminal capacity now allows the airport to handle over 35 million passengers annually.
An AAI official stated that the infrastructure improvements, combined with strategic partnerships with airlines, have helped facilitate higher passenger throughput. The airport continues to serve as a key hub for both low-cost and full-service carriers operating in South India.
With this performance, Chennai Airport maintains its position among the top five busiest airports in India, following Delhi, Mumbai, Bengaluru, and Hyderabad.
Aviation analysts project sustained passenger growth through the remainder of 2025, supported by upcoming festive travel and increasing airline capacity.
