Madurai Airport will operate 24/7 as of the upcoming winter schedule. This is a major upgrade in terms of operations. The Airport Authority of India has invited airlines submit their flight schedules and encouraged the use of nighttime slot for improved efficiency.
Currently, the airport is open from 6:55am to 9:25pm IST. The move to round-the clock service will allow for greater flexibility in flight schedules and better utilization of the airport infrastructure. The AAI’s notice highlighted the benefits of nighttime operations and encouraged airlines to optimize their schedules in order to fully utilize the airport facilities.
“This extension offers airlines a unique opportunity to make more efficient use of existing infrastructure and our resources,” stated the notification.
P. Muthukumar is the airport director in Madurai. He confirmed that the transition has begun. The airport has the infrastructure to accommodate up to twelve aircraft at night. The director also stated that an INR 5,92 crore investment would enhance passenger service with additional check in counters and immigration desks. It will also include X-ray machines.
Administrative issues delayed the decision to switch to 24/7 operations, even though it was announced more than a year ago. Local leaders in the trade and industry have welcomed the decision. Uthaman Maendran, senior advisor of the Madurai Infrastructure Development Association and AAI, has urged AAI that 24/7 operations be permanent.
He also stressed the importance of boosting cargo operations, including cold-storage for exports perishable goods. This would benefit local tradesmen, such as those who export jasmine flowers, and currently rely on airports like Trichy.
The strike by Air India SATS Airport Services has disrupted flight operations at Thiruvananthapuram Airport. The strike, which began Saturday night, caused delays on several international flights. Trade unions demand salary revisions and bonuses allowances. Despite the delays no flights have been cancelled.
S Rethinavelu expressed optimism that a new schedule would attract more international flights. He suggested Air India Express might soon introduce a direct, midnight flight from Kuala Lumpur to open up new trade and travel opportunities. He also encouraged IndiGo and Akasa to make Madurai a hub for both domestic and international routes.
“Most international tourists who visit the Meenakshi Amman Temple currently land at Trichy Airport. I hope more airlines use Madurai as a potential destination, which will benefit the local economy and hotels, he said.
Su Venkatesan, Madurai MP, shared the news via social media. He stated that the Civil Aviation Ministry will confirm the announcement soon. He expressed his confidence that the move will elevate Madurai as a key Airport in South India. It will boost both passenger traffic and freight movement, and contribute to the region’s growth.
