Chennai, Sept 18:
Chennai airport is expected to handle up to 35 million passengers annually after the new Terminal 3 becomes operational by April 2027, airport director Raja Kishore said. The airport currently handles around 23 million passengers a year, while its existing annual capacity is about 30 million.
Terminal 3, which is under construction, is expected to add around five million passengers to the airport’s annual capacity, taking the total capacity to 35 million passengers a year. The expansion is being carried out within the existing airport premises, with no immediate plan to remove the compound wall or expand into surrounding areas. However, plans are under way to further develop cargo facilities.
Work on a major stormwater drain near the runways has been delayed due to aviation safety requirements. The drain, initially planned 110 metres from the runway, is being realigned to maintain the required 140-metre clear area. More than 375 flights operate from the airport every day, and restrictions on crane operations near the runway have added to the construction challenges. Airport authorities said safety and security remain the priority.
Kishore said removing the compound wall to facilitate rainwater flow could allow water from surrounding areas, including Kaul Bazaar, to enter the airport premises. Hence, there is no immediate plan to remove the wall. Meanwhile, following a monkey entering the airport premises, CCTV footage is being examined and the Forest Department has been informed to capture and remove the animal.
As part of passenger facility improvements, sanitary napkin vending machines are being installed in all 36 women’s toilets at the airport. Ten machines have already been installed, while the remaining 26 are expected to be installed by October 15. Several other development and passenger-facility projects are also under way.