Union Minister for Civil Aviation, Ram Mohan Naidu, inaugurated the UDAN Yatri Cafe at Chennai Airport, marking the initiative’s second facility after the successful launch at Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport in Kolkata. The Kolkata cafe, opened on December 19, 2024, in celebration of the airport’s 100th anniversary, has received positive feedback from travelers regarding the quality, taste, and affordability of its offerings. The expansion to Chennai Airport is in response to high passenger demand for hygienic refreshments at subsidized prices.
Situated in the pre-check area of the T1 domestic terminal, the UDAN Yatri Cafe aims to enhance passenger convenience at one of India’s oldest and busiest airports, which handles over 22 million travelers annually. Addressing the media, Minister Naidu emphasized the cafe’s alignment with Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision of making air travel more inclusive and accessible, stating that the success in Kolkata prompted the introduction of similar facilities in other airports across the country.
Minister Naidu also discussed ongoing projects at Chennai Airport, including the 86,135 sq.m. expansion of Terminal 2 aimed at improving international operations and the refurbishment of Terminals 1 and 4 with an investment of over ₹75 crore. Additionally, a comprehensive traffic flow management system costing ₹19 crore is being implemented to alleviate congestion on the city side, further enhancing passenger experience.
Chennai International Airport is also committed to passenger convenience through various amenities such as free buggy services for senior citizens and pregnant women, childcare rooms, medical facilities, and modern lounges. The airport operates entirely on green energy and features a 1.5 MW solar power plant, aligning with its environmental commitments. The successful inauguration of the UDAN Yatri Cafe is part of the broader UDAN scheme (Ude Desh Ka Aam Nagrik), which seeks to democratize air travel and modernize airport infrastructure. The event was attended by Dr. T R B Rajaa, Minister for Industries, Tamil Nadu, along with senior officials from the Ministry of Civil Aviation, AAI, and Chennai Airport, marking a significant milestone in enhancing passenger experience and connectivity.
