Dismissing the recent media reports related to limitations at the Chennai Airport, the Ministry of Civil Aviation on Monday clarified the airport is fully equipped to accommodate long-haul widebody international flights.
Contrary to the reports, the Chennai Airport terminal complex has 13 aerobridges and 1 additional aerobridge is under construction, which will be operational by March 2024. The new aerobridge has been constructed to specifically cater to Code E aircraft, ensuring seamless boarding and disembarkation for passengers, the Minister of Civil Aviation mentioned in a statement, the ministry said.
Accommodating long-haul aircrafts
Of the existing 13 aerobridges, five are capable of accommodating Code E aircraft, which are typical airplanes like the Boeing 777/787 series and the A330. Besides, this capability will further be expanded with the completion of the second phase of Terminal 2, slated for 2025.
After the completion of this phase, an additional three Code E capable aerobridges will be operational, bringing the total to nine, read the official statement.
Focus on Code E aircrafts
Addressing concerns raised about the suitability of the airport for flagship aircraft like the A380, the Civil Aviation Ministry informed that the A380 belongs to the Code F category, and its production ceased in 2021. Instead, the focus is on accommodating the new generation of wide-bodied, long-haul aircraft like the A350 and B777, which fall under the Code E category, read the press release.
Notably, the statement underscores the Chennai Airport’s readiness to handle these modern aircraft, providing a seamless gateway for international travel.
