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$117 Cheap Flights to Chennai

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Popular airlines to Chennai

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How much is the cheapest flight to Chennai?

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $117 for one-way flights and $257 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Kuwait Airways
Etihad Airways
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Air Arabia
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Alternative airports near Chennai

Prices were available within the past 7 days. Prices and availability are subject to change.

What you need to know for your flight to Chennai

Flights to Chennai at a glance

Traveling to Chennai is easy—select from a variety of full-service or budget airlines, compare flight durations, and choose the option that aligns with your budget and schedule while planning to explore the city's renowned attractions and neighborhoods.

  • Major airports in and around Chennai: Chennai International Airport (MAA), Tirupati Airport (TIR), Pondicherry Airport (PNY)
  • Closest airport to Chennai: Chennai International Airport, MAA (within Chennai)
  • Flights per week: 850+ flights arriving across Chennai airports
  • Number of airlines that fly to Chennai: around 30+ carriers

Popular airports in and around Chennai

Chennai is a vibrant metropolis ideal for business trips, city explorations, and beach getaways. Visitors flock to this dynamic city for its rich culture, family-friendly activities, and coastal charm. It is conveniently served by three major airports.

  • Chennai International Airport (MAA): Situated in the Chennai District of Tamil Nadu, this airport caters to both domestic and international flights, linking to over 30 domestic cities and more than 65 global destinations. Travelers can opt for business class or premium economy seating for enhanced comfort, depending on the airline and route. Major airlines such as IndiGo, Air India, and Etihad Airways operate here.
  • Tirupati Airport (TIR): Found in Tirupati District, Andhra Pradesh, approximately 60 miles from Chennai, this airport focuses on domestic connections, serving around 6 cities throughout India. Passengers have the option to upgrade to business class or premium economy seating for additional comfort, based on their chosen airline and route. Notable airlines at this airport include IndiGo, Air India, and Hahn Air.
  • Pondicherry Airport (PNY): Located in Puducherry District, Puducherry, about 77 miles from Chennai, this airport operates domestic flights connecting to roughly 2 cities nationwide. The primary airline serving this airport is IndiGo, providing travelers with essential routes to their desired destinations.

Top routes to Chennai

  • Hyderabad (HYD) to Chennai (PNY/TIR/MAA), with one-way tickets available from around $30
  • San Francisco (SFO) to Chennai (MAA), with one-way tickets available from around $390
  • New York (JFK) to Chennai (MAA), with one-way flights starting at around $360
  • Mumbai (BOM) to Chennai (TIR/MAA), with one-way tickets available from around $40
  • Bengaluru (BLR) to Chennai (PNY/TIR/MAA), with one-way airfare from around $35

Cheapest routes to Chennai

  • Tuticorin (TCR) to Chennai (MAA), with budget one-way fares from around $25
  • Thiruvananthapuram (TRV) to Chennai (MAA), with cheap one-way fares from around $25
  • Coimbatore (CJB) to Chennai (MAA), with low-cost one-way tickets from around $25
  • Hyderabad (HYD) to Chennai (PNY/TIR/MAA), with budget one-way fares from around $30
  • Madurai (IXM) to Chennai (MAA), with low one-way fares from around $30

*Flight times and fares vary by season and availability and are based on one-way routes

Top airlines with flights to Chennai

  • IndiGo: Operating flights to Pondicherry Airport (PNY), Tirupati Airport (TIR), and Chennai International Airport (MAA), IndiGo represents roughly 33% of Chennai's arrivals. The typical fare for a one-way ticket is around $80.
  • Air India: With routes to Tirupati Airport (TIR) and Chennai International Airport (MAA), Air India accounts for about 16% of arrivals in Chennai. Passengers can expect an average one-way fare of around $230, with premium service options available depending on the route.
  • Etihad Airways: Connecting to Chennai International Airport (MAA), Etihad Airways makes up approximately 10% of the arrivals in Chennai. The average one-way fare is about $590, with business class available as a premium service option based on the route.
  • Qatar Airways: Offering flights to Chennai International Airport (MAA), Qatar Airways contributes roughly 8% of arrivals in Chennai. The average one-way fare hovers around $730, and premium service may include business class depending on the route.
  • Emirates: Also flying to Chennai International Airport (MAA), Emirates accounts for around 6% of arrivals in Chennai. Passengers can expect an average one-way fare of about $770, with business class as a premium service option depending on the route.

Best time to fly to Chennai

The most popular months for travelers to fly to Chennai are January, February, and December, when peak temperatures in Chennai can reach up to 78.8°F in February. If you prefer quieter travel, consider September, the least busy time to visit with temperatures around 84.7°F and typically the lowest average one-way fare (around $369), roughly 25% cheaper than the yearly average. Looking for additional cheaper months to fly? August offers an average one-way fare of around $417, making it a good option for flexible travelers.

calendar iconMonthtemperature iconTemperaturerain iconPrecipitationmostly cloudy iconCloudinesscrowd level iconDemandprice iconAverage one-way Fare
January77.4°F (25.2°C)No Rain (Dry)Mostly SunnyHigh$472
February78.8°F (26.0°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyHigh$431
March82.6°F (28.1°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$440
April86.5°F (30.3°C)No Rain (Dry)SunnyAverage$521
May89.6°F (32.0°C)Light RainSunnyLow$587
June88.9°F (31.6°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$582
July86.9°F (30.5°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$500
August85.6°F (29.8°C)Light RainMostly SunnyAverage$417
September84.7°F (29.3°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLow$369
October83.1°F (28.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyLow$468
November79.7°F (26.5°C)Frequent RainMostly SunnyAverage$478
December77.7°F (25.4°C)Light RainMostly SunnyHigh$647

*Average one-way fare is based on Expedia flight booking data from January 2025 to April 2026 for the specified route and travel class and may change depending on availability, dates, and demand.

How to save money on a flight to Chennai

Getting some of the best deals on flights to Chennai is all about timing and flexibility. Here are some key tips to help you save:

  1. Compare flight options—use Expedia's search tool to compare airlines, routes, direct vs. non-direct flights, and flight times. You can also sort by price to find the most affordable options.
  2. Set up price alerts—as an Expedia member you can use Price Tracking to receive notifications when flight prices change.
  3. Bundle and save—book a flight and unlock a hotel deal on Expedia*, or explore our Chennai hotel and flight deals.
  4. Think about luggage-nowadays, it's important to check the airline's baggage policies to find the best value. That may be paying for an additional carry-on bag or booking a ticket with checked luggage included. Either way, double-check your baggage allowance before confirming your booking to avoid excess baggage fees at the airport.
  5. Earn miles—you can earn airline miles when you book your Chennai flight with Expedia. Just select your frequent flyer program and enter your program number when confirming your booking.

*For members. Select hotels.

Arriving in Chennai

Chennai welcomes travelers through its range of transport options based on price, convenience, and proximity. Here's how to reach Chennai efficiently:

  • Public transportation: From Chennai International Airport, Chennai International Airport Metro Station, a metro station, is located about 0.1 miles away by walking, while Chennai Tirusulam Station, a train station, is roughly 0.2 miles away on foot. For those needing to reach the coast, Chennai Seaport, a seaport, is situated about 5.8 miles from the airport by car.
  • Hotel transfer: Transfers offer a convenient way to reach your hotel in Chennai, with options including free hotel shuttles and private rides, which can be arranged in advance.
  • Car rental: Renting a car in Chennai is a good option if you plan to explore and sightsee beyond the city. Browse cheap car rentals in Chennai on Expedia.
  • Taxi/ride-hailing: Taxis and ride-hailing services may be available from designated pickup areas outside the terminal, check locally on arrival.

Where to stay in Chennai

  • Muttukadu: Muttukadu is located around the area of Chennai and is a charming neighborhood known for its relaxing beach atmosphere and outdoor activities. Visitors flock to Muttukadu for thrilling water sports, serene swimming spots, and romantic beach walks. Key attractions include ECR Beach, perfect for a sun-soaked getaway, MGM Dizzee World, an amusement park suitable for family fun, and the DakshinaChitra Heritage Museum, which offers a glimpse into the region's rich cultural history.
  • Singaperumal Koil: Singaperumal Koil is located in the area of Chennai and is a quaint village that embraces both cultural heritage and modern education. Travelers can explore the Vallakottai Murugan Temple, a significant site for cultural enthusiasts, and enjoy the nearby Mamallapuram Beach, ideal for relaxation and family outings. Additionally, SRM University - Kattankulathur Campus adds an educational element to the village, making it a unique stop for visitors interested in the local academic landscape.
  • Mahabalipuram: Mahabalipuram is located in the area of Chennai and is a picturesque village renowned for its stunning coastline and historical significance. Visitors can unwind at Mamallapuram Beach, which offers a beautiful setting for beach vacations. The Shore Temple, a UNESCO World Heritage site, captivates history buffs with its ancient architecture, while Old Mahabalipuram Road provides access to various shopping centers and modern amenities, making this destination suitable for both relaxation and exploration.

Tips for short-haul flights to Chennai

For quick getaways, efficiency is key. Here is how to make your short-haul journey smoother:

  • Pack light and skip checked bags—with budget airlines, traveling with just a carry-on is often more economical. Maximize your space by using mini toiletries, wearing your heaviest clothing, and planning outfits wisely. This approach also allows you to bypass baggage claim upon arrival.
  • Bring your own entertainment—short-haul flights frequently lack in-flight entertainment options. To keep yourself engaged, download TV shows, movies, music, or podcasts ahead of time, and consider bringing a book. Remember to charge your devices fully before you board.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—for short or domestic flights, it’s advisable to get to the airport at least 1.5 to 2 hours prior to departure, allowing for traffic and security lines.
  • Bring your own snacks and water—to stay hydrated and save money at the airport, pack your own snacks and a refillable water bottle.

Tips for long-haul flights to Chennai

Flying long-haul sometimes requires extra planning to ensure a comfortable journey:

  • Select your seat in advance—for longer flights, choosing your seat is crucial for comfort. Full-service airlines typically allow free seat selection once online check-in opens, which is generally 24–48 hours before your flight. Some airlines may permit seat selection even earlier than this.
  • Arrive at the airport in plenty of time—make sure to arrive at the airport at least 3 hours before departure for international flights to allow sufficient time for check-in, security, and immigration procedures.
  • Relax at the airport—if you have extra time, take the opportunity to explore the shops, grab a coffee, or unwind at the gate or in a departure lounge if you have access. Airport Wi-Fi is usually free and readily available.
  • Adjust to the new time zone mid-flight—begin syncing your body clock by changing your watch and adjusting your sleep schedule to align with your destination's time zone. Aim to sleep or stay awake during the flight according to the local time at your arrival destination to help mitigate jet lag.

Frequently asked questions

What month is the cheapest to fly to Chennai?
The cheapest month to fly to Chennai is February when there's less demand. Off-peak months are usually when you'll find cheap fares. To keep costs down, avoid flying during public and school holidays.
Which US cities fly direct to Chennai?
If you'd rather fly to Chennai without a stopover, check out what's on offer by choosing "Direct flights only" when you explore departures on Expedia.
How to find a cheap flight to Chennai?
Book well in advance or look for a cheap flight to Chennai during the low season, such as April and May. Leaving on a Thursday could also save you 16% on average compared to a Sunday departure.* The Expedia app makes it even easier to know exactly when to book. Just activate the toggle for "Watch prices" and you'll receive a notification when fares change.*Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
How to get a cheap last-minute flight to Chennai?
It's possible to get cheap deals on last-minute departures to Chennai, especially if your travel plans are flexible. Think about departing from a different airport, changing your dates or choosing another airline to get a cheap flight to Chennai.
How far in advance should I book a flight to Chennai?
Secure the travel dates you want and a fare your budget will love by booking your domestic flight to Chennai up to 28 days in advance. Search for tickets two to four months ahead if you're jetting to Chennai from an international destination.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which day of the week is the cheapest day to buy a plane ticket to Chennai?
You can generally find cheap flights to Chennai on a Sunday. Travelers can save about 8% on average compared to booking on a Friday, which is typically the most expensive day to buy tickets.**Best day of the week to book, depart and ideal booking window recommendations based on average round-trip ticket prices for January through August 2023, sourced from Airline Reporting Corporation's (ARC) global airline sales database. Percentages noted are averages.
Which airlines fly to Chennai?
A total of 35 carriers connect 56 airports across the world to Chennai. Here are some of the most popular airlines to Chennai, where Chennai Intl. Airport (MAA) is the major gateway:
  • IndiGo
  • Air India
  • Vistara
  • Etihad Airways
Where do you fly into Chennai?
The main airport to fly to Chennai is Chennai Intl. Airport (MAA). You can also land at Tirupati Airport (TIR) when flying to Chennai.
How far is the airport from central Chennai?
Arriving at Chennai Intl. Airport (MAA) puts you around 3 mi south of the center of Chennai.
Can I save money by booking a Chennai trip package?
Bundle your accommodations and flights and you could save hundreds of dollars. Better yet, you can add extras like car rentals and tours to your Chennai flight and hotel package deal. With Expedia, it's a breeze to manage all your Chennai travel arrangements in one place.
Can I change or cancel my flight to Chennai?
You can often change or cancel your flight to Chennai within 24 hours of booking. However, be mindful that some flights are non-refundable. In those cases, you may receive a credit toward future travel rather than a direct refund. Remember to check the airline's terms and conditions in your itinerary for specific details. Use Expedia's "No cancel fee" or "Changes included" filters during your search to find cheap flights to Chennai with flexible change policies. To learn more, visit our Customer Service Portal.

*Flight schedules are subject to change.

*Available to One Key members.

Book with confidence

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Chennai

The cheapest day to fly

Get started finding a cheap flight to Chennai on Expedia by either choosing a deal on this page or entering into the search bar your travel dates, origin airport, and whether you want roundtrip or one-way airfare. You can filter for flexibility, number of stops, airline, and departure/arrival times to find the best flight for you.

The cheapest month to fly

February is the cheapest month to fly to Chennai. This coincides with the low season when fewer people travel. Whichever month you travel in, though, be sure to book at least a month in advance if you want to score cheap tickets to Chennai. ARC's data shows that domestic flights booked 28 days or more before departure are typically 24% cheaper than those booked last minute.

The most affordable time to book a flight

Typically, a Sunday can be the cheapest time to book a flight to Chennai, according to ARC’s data. On average, you could save between 6% and 13% by booking on a Sunday instead of a Friday, which is the most expensive day to make a reservation.

The cheapest round-trip tickets to Chennai

The lowest price for round-trip flights to Chennai in 2026 starts from from $257, while one-way tickets start from from $117. Expedia's effective search tool is one of the best ways to find a budget airfare. Simply enter your dates, and within seconds, it'll show you a vast selection of the cheapest flights to Chennai. If you have a preferred departure time or airline, you can use the handy filters to customize your search.

The cheapest airlines flying to Chennai

Air Arabia Abu Dhabi, Air Arabia, Scoot, Kuwait Airways, Etihad Airways, Emirates, IndiGo are just some of the airlines that can typically offer cheap tickets to Chennai. You can find their most affordable flights by using the “airline” search filter and then sorting prices from low to high. As a trusted partner of the world's leading airlines, Expedia offers you some of the best airfare deals to Chennai and countless more destinations worldwide.

The most affordable airports to fly into

To view the cheapest airports to fly into for Chennai, simply order your search results from lowest to highest price. Expedia's search tool compares flight prices for all airports close to your destination, so you don't have to manually search them one by one to find the cheapest flight to Chennai. If you have a preferred place to fly into, take advantage of the “arrival airport” filter to narrow down your search on Expedia.

Save with a package

With Expedia's amazing package deals, you could save hundreds of dollars by booking your Chennai plane tickets together with your accommodations, car rental, or activities. Just select the search wizard's “package” option to view some of the cheapest deals. Look out for the green savings label to see how much you're saving.

Date flexibility for the cheapest flights to Chennai

If you can be flexible with your travel dates, it's a good idea to broaden your search by comparing prices on different days. This will open up more options, meaning you could uncover a less expensive flight to Chennai.

Stopover savings

The cheapest tickets to Chennai are sometimes those with a stopover. Book one of these flights, and you'll change planes at an airport en route to Chennai. While the overall travel time might be longer than a non-stop flight, you may decide it's worth it for the money saved.

Get Expedia's Price Drop Protection

Price Drop Protection means that if your flight gets cheaper after booking, you'll be credited the difference*. This gives you peace of mind that you're getting one of the cheapest flights to Chennai for your chosen departure. Expedia's Price Drop Protection is available for a small fee but is free to One Key Gold and Platinum tier members.

*Terms apply.

Use our Price Tracking feature

Expedia's Price Tracking feature is another great tool that removes the guesswork from finding cheap flights to Chennai. Simply download the free Expedia app to your smart device and activate Chennai flight price alerts for your travel dates. There's even a price predictor tool that uses historical data to indicate the best time to book, giving you peace of mind that you'll nab the lowest prices.

Book with Expedia

As well as Price Drop Protection and Price Tracking, Expedia's close partnership with a vast selection of the world's leading airlines means you're sure to find cheap flights to Chennai. Plus, the One Key rewards program lets you earn real cash rewards on most bookings that you can use to save money on future trips. Best of all, it's free to join, and members often unlock exclusive discounts, too.

Disclaimer: ARC The statistics are based on average round-trip ticket prices between January and August 2023. The percentages you see are averages.

Tips to find the cheapest flights to Chennai

Travel information

Destination airport
Chennai Intl.
Destination airport IATA code
MAA
Destination city name
Chennai
Roundtrip price
$242

Trending flights to Chennai

Prices were available within the past 7 days and start at $117 for one-way flights and $257 for round trip, for the period specified. Prices and availability are subject to change. Additional terms apply.

Etihad Airways

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