Industries, Investment Promotions, and Commerce Minister TRB Rajaa has urged the Union Civil Aviation Ministry to address a long-standing gap in Tamil Nadu’s intra-state air connectivity. Highlighting the growing inconvenience for passengers and business travelers, he specifically pointed to routes such as Chennai–Tiruchi and Chennai–Thoothukudi, which, despite operating at full capacity, continue to rely on smaller ATR aircraft.dtnext
Rajaa emphasized that while ATRs may serve Tier-III destinations, they are ill-suited for a state that plays a critical economic role in India and sees significant business travel. “Passengers often face discomfort due to inadequate air-conditioning on such flights,” he noted, urging the government to upgrade equipment on these routes.
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Industrial stakeholders have also voiced concerns over the continued use of ATRs on busy corridors. “What is the use of opening new airports if larger aircraft are not introduced for Tamil Nadu?” Rajaa remarked, criticizing both the Union government and IndiGo for what he called neglect—especially since high fares are charged despite the limited capacity.
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Additionally, he expressed safety concerns, stating, “ATR aircraft are more prone to turbulence and hard landings, leading frequent travelers to avoid them.” He added that both investors and Members of Parliament have repeatedly flagged the issue. “I have personally written to the Union Minister several times and raised it in meetings,” Rajaa said, questioning why one of India’s busiest domestic routes still operates with smaller planes.
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Concluding his appeal, Rajaa reiterated his demand: for the Union government and IndiGo to replace ATRs with larger, more stable aircraft to enhance comfort, safety, and capacity for intra-state travelers.