Chennai International Airport (MAA)

Common Complaints

• Cleanliness and Washrooms: Washrooms and general cleanliness are consistently rated as below average, with frequent mentions of dirtiness and bad odors.
• Immigration Process: Travelers frequently report long delays, numerous empty immigration counters, and rude officials, sometimes accompanied by invasive questioning.
• Security Screening: Bottlenecks are common due to limited operational baggage screening machines, and staff attitudes are sometimes described as "repulsive" with outdated practices like marking bags with chalk.
• Lack of Amenities: Insufficient WiFi, limited and often low-quality food and beverage options (especially in the international terminal), and a scarcity of comfortable sleeping facilities for layovers are frequently cited.
• Wayfinding and Staff Communication: Passengers struggle with poor signage, receive incorrect guidance from staff, and face language barriers as some staff are unable or unwilling to communicate in English.
• Terminal Connectivity and Parking: Poorly designed pathways between terminals and parking areas create difficulties, particularly for international passengers with heavy luggage. Parking rules are described as confusing, with changing pathways.
• Customs Experience: Customs officers are often described as relentless, with mandatory hand baggage scanning for nearly all passengers (unlike other major Indian airports) and the use of white chalk to mark bags for checks.
• Inefficient Transfers: Transfers, especially between domestic and international terminals, are often stressful due to long distances, lack of inter-terminal transport, and unhelpful staff.

Overall, Chennai International Airport often provides a challenging experience for travelers, with significant areas for improvement in passenger services, infrastructure maintenance, and staff efficiency, particularly in immigration and customs. While recent terminal upgrades show promise, consistent issues continue to hinder overall traveler satisfaction. Utilizing prepaid taxi counters or reputable private transfer services is recommended for ground transport to avoid issues with local taxis.