Chennai International Airport

Terminal 1 handles domestic low-cost carriers including SpiceJet and GoAir; check-in counters are on the ground floor with security screening above. The terminal has basic retail and food options, and boarding gates are relatively compact, so arriving 90 minutes before departure is generally sufficient. Connections to international flights require moving to Terminal 4, so allow at least 3 hours for such transfers.

• • Arrive at least 90 minutes before domestic departure
• • Limited seating near gates — proceed through security early during peak season (December–January)

Terminal 2 serves domestic operations for Air India and IndiGo among others; it offers slightly more facilities than Terminal 1, including ATMs, currency exchange counters, and a modest food court. Check-in is on the departures level and security queues can be lengthy during morning and evening peak hours. Confirm with your airline which domestic terminal you are assigned to, as allocations can change.

• • Check your airline's terminal assignment on your booking before arriving
• • ATMs and currency exchange are available airside — use them before clearing security if queues are short

Terminal 3 is dedicated primarily to international arrivals, housing immigration, customs, and baggage reclaim halls. The Lost and Found desk, medical services, and currency exchange counters are located in the arrivals hall for immediate passenger needs. Ground transport including pre-paid taxis, metro rail access, and bus counters are directly outside the arrivals exit.

• • Use the pre-paid taxi counter inside the arrivals hall to avoid unauthorized touts outside
• • The Chennai Metro Rail station is a short walk from the terminal — a cost-effective option into the city

Terminal 4 is the main international departures terminal, serving airlines such as Emirates, Air India international, and others; it features duty-free shops, airline lounges, business centers, children's play areas, and a wide selection of restaurants and cafes both before and after security. Check-in counters open typically 3 hours before departure, and immigration queues can be long during the December–January peak season, so arriving 3 hours early is strongly advised. Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal and lounge access can be arranged through your airline or third-party lounge pro

• • Arrive at least 3 hours before international departure, especially during peak season
• • Duty-free shopping is available both before and after immigration — larger selections are post-security