Chennai, 8 July (H.S.): Chennai Airport witnessed a decline in both passenger traffic and flight operations in June, following the end of the summer vacation surge in May. According to official data, the airport handled 19,38,194 passengers and 12,958 flights in June, marking a decrease of 1,19,654 passengers and 491 flights compared to May. The airport saw an average of 64,600 passengers and 432 flights daily.

The dip in passenger and flight numbers is attributed to the conclusion of summer holidays, resulting in fewer tourists. In May, the airport operated several summer special flights to meet the increased demand, including 206 special flights with 42 international services. Popular international destinations included Dubai, Abu Dhabi, Singapore, Malaysia, Thailand, and Sri Lanka, while top domestic destinations were Madurai, Coimbatore, Tiruchy, Thoothukudi, Delhi, Mumbai, Hyderabad, Kochi, Kolkata, Andaman Islands, and Bengaluru.

Airport officials noted that such fluctuations are typical and expect numbers to rise again in the festive months of September and October, when holidays and celebrations usually lead to increased travel.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Dr. R. B. Chaudhary