Chennai Airport News: T1 Cab Pick-Up Plaza, Digital Maps and New Signages Coming Soon
Chennai Airport News
For nearly two years, passengers booking cabs had to walk to the multi-level parking area to board their vehicles. The proposed change is expected to make the process much more convenient, especially for passengers arriving at the busy domestic terminal.
The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has appointed a consultant to redesign the routes for private and commercial vehicles. A provisional plan has already been submitted, and the route changes are reportedly in the final stage.
The passenger plaza was built at a cost of around ₹28.72 crore and was designed as an open waiting area. Although the facility has been ready since December last year, its inauguration was delayed. AAI has now decided to move ahead with the launch.
The plaza will also include booking kiosks for different cab aggregators, allowing passengers to find and book their preferred cab service more easily.
The new arrangement could benefit a large number of travellers. Chennai airport handles around 55,000 passengers every day, and approximately 60% of the passenger traffic comes through the T1 domestic terminal. This means nearly 33,000 passengers a day could potentially benefit from improved access to cabs and other transport services.
The cab pick-up changes are part of a wider effort to improve passenger movement inside and outside Chennai airport.
Airport authorities are planning to install digital maps near the terminals. These maps will help passengers identify their location and understand how to reach different areas of the airport.
The airport will also replace existing signboards with backlit signages. These signs are expected to be easier to see at night. Authorities also plan to remove duplicate or confusing signs to make navigation simpler.
In addition, around 105 passenger guidance personnel will be deployed to assist travellers. A canopy structure is also planned for the relevant areas to provide better shelter for passengers.
Passengers arriving at T4 domestic and T2 international terminals will continue to have access to airport buggies. Officials said buggies will operate between T4 and T1 and also towards the multi-level parking area.
The improvements are expected to reduce confusion and walking time for passengers, particularly those carrying heavy luggage.
Passenger representatives have welcomed the changes but have also called for a clear, time-bound schedule for the opening of the new plaza.
With the proposed cab pick-up facility, digital maps, improved signages and additional passenger guidance staff, Chennai airport is aiming to provide a smoother and more organised experience for travellers.
Ajeet Yadav is an aviation enthusiast covering airline news, airports, aircraft, and industry developments through well-researched and reliable reporting.
