Chennai Airport Terminal 5: Tamil Nadu Explores Metro, Underground Monorail and Expressway Connectivity

Tamil Nadu is examining a range of transport connectivity options for the proposed Terminal 5 at Chennai International Airport, with a metro line, underground monorail and new road infrastructure among the possibilities being studied. The proposed expansion is expected to strengthen the airport’s passenger-handling capacity and improve access to the new terminal from different parts of the city.

The connectivity planning has gained importance following the decision to drop the proposed second airport at Parandur. With the state revisiting its long-term aviation strategy, the focus has shifted towards expanding the existing Chennai airport and improving its ability to accommodate growing passenger demand.

Proposed Terminal 5 to handle 20 million passengers

Terminal 5 is proposed on the western side of the existing airport, between the runways. The facility is planned to handle around 20 million passengers annually. Its initial road connection is expected to link it with the Tambaram–Maduravoyal bypass.

Authorities are also examining an additional connection to GST Road and the existing airport terminals. Such a link could allow passengers to move between different terminals more conveniently, avoiding lengthy detours through the surrounding road network.

Chennai airport director M Raja Kishore has indicated that better connectivity between the existing terminals and the proposed facility could help the airport meet passenger demand until 2050. This could provide additional time for the state to assess its requirements for a second airport.

Metro and monorail options under consideration

The proposed transport network could include a metro extension or an underground monorail connection. However, neither option has been finalised, and the decision will depend on the technical assessment and feasibility studies.

The Tamil Nadu Industrial Development Corporation (TIDCO) has been assigned responsibility for preparing the Detailed Project Report (DPR) covering the proposed connectivity infrastructure. Officials from TIDCO, the National Highways Authority of India (NHAI) and the Water Resources Department have held discussions to define the scope of the study and their respective responsibilities. Chennai Metro Rail has also participated in discussions on possible transport links.

NHAI proposes four or six-lane expressway

Road connectivity is another important part of the expansion plan. NHAI has proposed a four or six-lane expressway connecting Terminal 5 with the Tambaram–Maduravoyal bypass.

The proposal includes a cloverleaf interchange at Tharapakkam and a link to the Outer Ring Road. Apart from improving passenger access, the proposed corridor could support cargo transportation from the Sriperumbudur industrial belt.

However, the alignment will require careful assessment, particularly its potential impact on the Adyar river and surrounding areas.

Airport infrastructure expansion

The proposed expansion also includes improvements to aircraft parking and passenger boarding infrastructure. According to the airport director, parking capacity is expected to increase from 84 to 124 bays, while the number of aerobridges could rise from 17 to 42.

For now, the metro, monorail and expressway proposals remain under consideration rather than approved construction projects. The next major step is the completion of the DPR, followed by decisions on the preferred connectivity options.

The final transport arrangement will play an important role in determining how Terminal 5 integrates with Chennai’s existing road and public transport network while supporting the city’s long-term passenger and cargo requirements.