Chennai airport introduces traffic diversions amid expansion work; Check before travelling

Chennai Airport has implemented temporary traffic diversions and access restrictions for 40 days due to ongoing expansion work on its new integrated terminal. One entry gate has been closed, and passengers must use the main GST Road access.

Post Published By: Sona Saini

Updated : 18 March 2026, 9:09 AM IST

Entry Restrictions at Chennai Airport

Chennai: Chennai Airport has introduced temporary traffic diversions and access restrictions as part of a major expansion project. Authorities have advised passengers to plan for extra travel time over the next 40 days. These measures, implemented by the Airports Authority of India (AAI), aim to facilitate ongoing construction of a section of the new integrated international terminal.

Single Entry Point in Use

The most significant change is the closure of one of the two vehicle entry points. During this period, only the main gate on GST Road, opposite Tirusulam railway station, will remain operational. Vehicles approaching from the Tambaram side will no longer be able to use the secondary entry near the PVR Galada complex and must reroute via the main gate. Traffic marshals have been deployed to manage congestion.

Revised Access to Terminal 4

Access to Terminal 4 (domestic departures) has been modified. Vehicles must enter through the main gate, proceed straight, take the last right turn, and use a flyover ramp to reach the drop-off area. After dropping passengers, vehicles will take a U-turn near the terminal and exit through the same route. However, concerns remain over potential bottlenecks and the condition of a section of the ramp, which may slow traffic flow.

Parking Access Becomes Inconvenient

Parking access for those accompanying passengers to Terminal 4 has become more complicated. Visitors can no longer directly enter the parking facility. Instead, they must exit and re-enter the airport premises via GST Road before proceeding to the multi-level car park and walking to the terminal. Additionally, the connecting corridor between Terminal 4 and the parking structure has been temporarily closed.

Impact on Passenger Movement Services

While operations at Terminal 1 (domestic) and Terminal 2 (international) remain largely unaffected, some passenger services have been curtailed. Buggy services between Terminal 1 and Terminal 4 departure levels have been suspended. Passengers are advised to use walkalators or alternative routes via arrival levels.

Timeline for Normal Operations

The Airports Authority of India has stated that these arrangements will remain in place until construction work on the new terminal section is completed. Normal operations are expected to resume by April 24.