Chennai Airport Shifts Domestic Flights to New T4 Terminal
Starting November 15, 2023, passengers flying with Air India and Alliance Air will be required to use the T4 terminal at Chennai airport for domestic flights. This move comes as part of the ongoing phase II modernization efforts at the airport.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has been working on the modernization of Chennai airport for several years now. In July, a section of the new integrated terminal was inaugurated, resulting in the relocation of international departure flight operations from the T4 terminal to the new facility.
Following this, the T4 terminal underwent modifications to serve as the second domestic terminal at the airport. The AAI recently announced on social media platform X that Terminal 4 is now fully operational and ready to handle domestic flight operations. This upgrade aims to streamline the airport’s operations and enhance passenger experience.
To ensure a smooth transition, the AAI will conduct trials on November 14 with two flights operated by Air India—AI 550 between Port Blair and Chennai, and AI 563 between Chennai and Bengaluru—both departing from the T4 terminal. In the coming weeks, domestic flights operated by Vistara and Air Asia will also be shifted to the T4 terminal.
However, it is worth noting that the remaining airlines, including IndiGo, SpiceJet, Akasa, and Go Air, will continue operating from the T1 terminal as usual. This approach aims to balance operations between the two terminals while minimizing disruption to passengers and airlines.
The introduction of a second domestic terminal is expected to reduce queues and congestion at various points, such as check-in counters and security. Passengers have welcomed this move, highlighting the need for proper signage to ensure a seamless experience during the transition.
As the T4 terminal becomes fully operational, both AAI and airport authorities are working to provide passengers with a well-organized and efficient facility. Adhering to international standards, the terminal will offer a range of amenities and services to enhance passenger comfort.
In conclusion, the Chennai airport is making significant strides in its modernization efforts by introducing the T4 terminal for domestic flights. With Air India and Alliance Air already migrating to the new terminal on November 15, passengers can expect a smoother and more streamlined travel experience. As other airlines gradually shift operations to T4, the airport aims to enhance efficiency, reduce overcrowding, and provide a world-class facility for passengers.
