Chennai Airport Ranking Slips as Kolkata Closes in on Traffic

CHENNAI – Once the third-busiest airport in India, Chennai International Airport has witnessed a gradual decline in its national rankings, currently hovering near the sixth spot as Kolkata’s Netaji Subhash Chandra Bose International Airport closes the gap. Latest data from the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for May 2026 highlights a narrowing lead, with Chennai handling 1.90 million passengers compared to Kolkata’s 1.87 million, a difference of just 34,000 travelers.

The trend reflects a broader struggle at the AAI-managed facility, which has been outperformed by private-sector-led hubs in Bengaluru and Hyderabad over the last decade. While Bengaluru and Hyderabad airports have seen passenger traffic surge by over 100% since 2016, Chennai’s growth has remained modest at approximately 24%.

Infrastructure and Operational Bottlenecks

Industry experts and frequent flyers have pointed to several factors contributing to the airport's waning momentum. According to AAI traffic statistics, Chennai's domestic passenger numbers in May 2026 fell by 6.2% year-on-year to 1.39 million, while Kolkata saw a 4% increase, reaching 1.66 million.

Operational challenges frequently cited include:

• Runway Saturation: The airport’s existing configuration of crossing runways limits the number of flights it can handle during peak hours.

• Flight Suspensions: Several airlines have reduced or suspended operations from Chennai following geopolitical tensions and rising jet fuel costs, with few new carriers stepping in to fill the void.

• Passenger Amenities: Complaints regarding maintenance, limited retail and dining options, and delays in the commissioning of the new T3 terminal have drawn criticism from travelers compared to the seamless experience offered by private airports like Bengaluru’s Kempegowda International.

Future Outlook and Development

Chennai airport authorities maintain that operational efficiency will see a turnaround once ongoing infrastructure projects are finalized. Efforts to complete the new integrated terminal building and airside works are currently underway, with officials expecting these additions to boost handling capacity.

Despite these efforts, there is growing public and industry pressure for the state government to expedite the development of a second airport. The proposed project at Parandur is seen by many, including representatives from the South Indian Chamber of Commerce and Industry (SICCI), as essential to transforming Chennai into a competitive global aviation hub.

Official Sources

All statistical data regarding passenger traffic and aircraft movements are based on monthly performance reports released by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). Historical comparisons and industry analysis are derived from official statements provided by AAI officials and records from the Ministry of Civil Aviation.

Why It Matters

The decline of Chennai International Airport carries significant economic implications. Airports serve as vital ecosystems that drive city-wide investments and job creation. Industry experts warn that if the airport continues to trail behind peer metros in connectivity and amenities, the city risks losing its status as a gateway to South India, potentially hindering future business expansion and tourism.

Key Facts at a Glance

• Current Standing: Chennai sits as the sixth-busiest airport, with Kolkata posing a direct threat to its fifth-place ranking.

• Traffic Gap: In May 2026, the passenger volume gap between Chennai and Kolkata narrowed to just 34,000.

• Growth Deficit: Over the last 10 years, Chennai’s passenger traffic grew by 24%, significantly lower than the 100%+ growth seen in Bengaluru and Hyderabad.

• Performance Drivers: The decline is attributed to runway saturation, airline flight suspensions, and a lack of modern passenger amenities.

FAQ

Why is Chennai Airport losing its ranking?

The decline is driven by infrastructure limitations, including a saturated runway system, delays in terminal construction, and a reduction in flight services by major airlines.

How does Chennai compare to Bengaluru and Hyderabad?

While Bengaluru and Hyderabad have successfully expanded their connectivity and passenger capacity over the last decade, Chennai has struggled with slow infrastructure development, falling behind in both traffic volume and operational efficiency.

What is the status of the new airport project?

Proposals for a second airport at Parandur are under discussion, with industry bodies urging the government to fast-track the project to prevent further economic and aviation stagnation.

Source: Airports Authority of India (AAI), The Times of India, The Hindu