Madurai Airport

If you need to contact representatives of Madurai Airport, please use the following contact information. We recommend checking the official website for the most up-to-date data, as details may change.

• Official Website: www.aai.aero/en/airports/madurai
• Helpline Number: +91-452-2690717
• Airport Address: Airports Authority of India, Madurai Airport, Madurai - 625022, Tamil Nadu, India
• Email: apdmadurai@aai.aero (Airport Director's Office)
• Social Media: Current information and news can be tracked on the official pages of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) on social networks, for example, on Twitter (X).
• Lost Baggage Information: You should first contact your airline's representative office. If luggage was lost within the terminal premises, you can contact the airport service via email: tmgr_vomd@aai.aero
• Passenger Support Contacts: For general inquiries and support, use the main airport helpline number.

Madurai Airport (IXM) is located approximately 12 kilometres south of the city centre of Madurai. You can get to or from the airport to the city in several ways, the choice of which depends on your budget, time, and comfort preferences. On average, a trip from the city centre takes 30 to 45 minutes by car, but may take longer during peak hours.

Public Transport is the most budget-friendly way to travel. City buses (for example, route 10J) run regularly between the airport and the main Periyar Bus Stand. This is an excellent choice for economical travellers and those who want to immerse themselves in local life. However, please note that buses can be crowded, and the journey will take longer than by taxi — about 45-60 minutes.

Taxi and Transfer is the most convenient and fastest option. In the arrivals hall, you will find pre-paid taxi counters, where the cost of the trip is fixed and paid in advance. This helps avoid bargaining with the driver. Mobile taxi booking apps popular in India, such as Ola and Uber, are also widely used and often offer competitive prices. This method is ideal for travellers with luggage or those who value comfort and speed.

For those who prefer complete freedom of movement, car rental services are available at the airport. However, it is worth remembering the peculiarities of local traffic. If you are arriving in your own or a rented car, the airport provides paid parking for both short-term and long-term stays.

When planning your trip, it is useful to know about other airports in the region that may offer alternative flights. Among the nearest options are Tiruchirappalli International Airport (TRZ) and Tuticorin Airport (TCR). Larger international hubs, such as Coimbatore International Airport (CJB), Cochin International Airport (COK), and Trivandrum International Airport (TRV), are also within a few hours' drive and offer a wider range of destinations.

Madurai Airport (IXM) is a modern and compact aviation hub with a structure that is simple and easy for travellers to understand. The main feature of the airport is that it consists of one integrated terminal that serves both domestic and international flights. This significantly simplifies navigation and eliminates the need to transfer between different buildings.

The terminal is a two-level building. The ground floor typically houses arrival zones, check-in counters, baggage claim areas, and customs control. The first floor is dedicated to the departure zone, where security checkpoints, passport control for international passengers, and boarding gates are located. Since all services are located under one roof, moving around the airport causes no difficulties. All navigation is intuitive, and signs in English and Tamil help you orient yourself easily.

Departure and Arrival Zones are clearly demarcated. After check-in and security screening, passengers enter the secure area with waiting lounges, a small number of Duty Free shops, cafes, and souvenir stalls. The arrival zone is equipped with baggage claim belts, taxi counters, and car rental desks. Since there is only one terminal, you do not have to worry about transfers between them.

The time required for pre-flight formalities at Madurai Airport is usually short due to its relatively small size. For domestic flights, it is recommended to arrive 1.5–2 hours before departure, and for international flights — 2.5–3 hours prior. During peak hours or the tourist season, waiting times at check-in and security may increase, so it is worth allowing a small buffer. Overall, navigating IXM airport is a simple task even for those here for the first time.

The history of Madurai Airport (IXM) begins during the Second World War. It was founded in 1942 as an airbase for the British Royal Air Force for military operations. After the war ended, the airfield was handed over to the civil authorities of India, and from that moment began its transformation into an important transport hub for the southern region of Tamil Nadu.

The first scheduled passenger flights were launched in 1957, connecting Madurai with Chennai (then Madras) and other major cities in the country. Over the decades, the airport gradually developed, serving domestic routes and playing a key role in the growth of local tourism and trade. However, its infrastructure remained modest for a long time, designed to handle a small flow of passengers and aircraft like the Fokker F27 Friendship.

A real breakthrough in the airport's development occurred in the 21st century. In 2010, a new modern integrated terminal building was inaugurated. This event became a turning point in the history of IXM, allowing for a significant increase in capacity and improved passenger service quality. The new terminal was equipped with aerobridges, immigration control counters, and modern baggage handling systems.

A key achievement was obtaining international airport status. On 31 December 2012, Madurai Airport was officially declared a customs airport, which opened the doors for international flights. Shortly thereafter, in 2013, SpiceJet launched the first international flight to Dubai, connecting the historic city with one of the world's largest hubs. In subsequent years, flights to Colombo and Singapore were added, strengthening its international status.

One interesting fact is that the extension of the runway to 7,500 feet (2,286 metres) allowed it to accommodate larger aircraft, such as the Airbus A320 and Boeing 737. Today, Madurai Airport continues to develop, serving not only as a gateway for tourists eager to see the city's famous temples but also as an important centre for business travel and pilgrimage in South India.

Madurai Airport (IXM) offers passengers all the necessary services for a comfortable wait for their flight. Despite its relatively small size, the terminal is designed to meet the basic needs of travellers arriving in this important cultural centre of India.

The airport has several cafes and snack bars where you can have a bite to eat before departure, as well as enjoy coffee or soft drinks. For shopping enthusiasts, there are shops offering essentials, souvenirs, and products by local artisans. Passengers on international flights can visit Duty Free shops. For a more comfortable rest, premium waiting lounges (CIP lounges) are available, which can be accessed for an additional fee or through airline loyalty programmes.

Free Wi-Fi is available throughout the terminal, allowing you to stay connected. Special stands and power outlets are provided in waiting areas for charging electronic devices. Financial services are represented by ATMs and currency exchange counters, which is particularly convenient for international tourists. In case of necessity, passengers can seek assistance at the medical centre operating within the airport.

The airport is equipped for the comfortable stay of passengers with special needs. For travellers with children, there are mother and child rooms. Passengers with reduced mobility are provided with wheelchairs, ramps, and specially equipped restrooms. It is recommended to notify your airline in advance regarding the need for assistance.

Although there are no hotels directly within the airport building, several hotels of varying comfort levels are located in the immediate vicinity and can be quickly reached by taxi. For business travellers, basic business services, such as photocopying or faxing, may be available in the premium waiting lounges.

Madurai Airport (IXM), being a vital transport hub in the state of Tamil Nadu, offers passengers several options for a snack or a full meal. While the selection here is not as vast as in metropolises, you certainly won't go hungry. The main dining establishments are concentrated within the single integrated terminal.

In the public area (landside), before passing through security control, there are several cafes and snack bars. This is an excellent option for those seeing someone off or those who have arrived at the airport early. Here you can drink a cup of the famous South Indian filter coffee, eat a sandwich, or have a light snack. Prices in this zone can be classified as budget to mid-range, making a snack here quite affordable.

After passing through screening, in the departure zone (airside), the selection is oriented towards passengers waiting for their flight. There is a small food court and cafes serving both quick snacks and hot dishes. This is a wonderful opportunity to try classics of local cuisine: be sure to order dosa (a crispy crepe made from rice flour), idli (steamed rice cakes), or vada (spicy lentil doughnuts) with traditional sambar and chutney sauces. Prices here belong to the mid-range segment, which is typical for airports.

For those who prefer something more familiar, standard options are always available: sandwiches, pastries, and soft drinks. Finding vegetarian dishes in India is effortless — they constitute the basis of the menu in most establishments, making them a safe choice for most dietary requirements. Vegan or gluten-free options might be harder to find, but staff are usually ready to help and explain the ingredients of dishes. It is important to note that most cafes are open from the first to the last flight, so you will be able to get a snack regardless of your departure or arrival time.

Travelling through Madurai Airport (IXM) can be simple and comfortable if you know a few key points. These tips will help you orient yourself and avoid unnecessary stress during your trip to or from India.

Airport Arrival Time: To avoid rushing, we recommend arriving at the airport at least 2-3 hours before international flights and 1.5-2 hours before domestic ones. This will give you enough time to go through all procedures, even if there are queues.

Check-in and Security: Whenever possible, use online check-in for your flight — this will save you time at the counters. Security checks at airports in India can be quite thorough. be prepared to remove outerwear, belts, and take all electronic devices and liquids out of your hand luggage for scanning.

Seat Selection: During online check-in or at the counter in the airport, pay attention to seat selection. If you want to enjoy the views during takeoff and landing, choose a window seat. Do you prefer more legroom and the ability to stand up easily without disturbing neighbours? Then your choice is an aisle seat. For maximum comfort, especially on long flights, consider booking seats with extra legroom, for example, in the emergency exit rows.

Baggage and Hand Luggage: Liquids in containers of no more than 100 ml, packed in a single transparent bag, are allowed in hand luggage. Sharp objects, weapons, and flammable substances are strictly prohibited. Power banks must be carried only in hand luggage.

Transfer Passengers and Customs: If you have a connecting flight, check with the airline in advance whether your luggage will be transferred automatically or if you need to collect and re-check it. Upon arrival via an international flight, you will have to go through customs control. If you have no goods to declare, use the "Green Channel".

Saving Time and Money: Book a taxi from the airport at the pre-paid counters or via official apps to avoid inflated prices. Prices for food and water at the airport are higher than in the city. You can take an empty bottle with you and fill it with water at drinking fountains after passing security control.

In Case of Flight Delay: In the event of a flight delay or cancellation, immediately contact your airline representative. They are obliged to provide you with information, and in cases of long delays — vouchers for food, drinks, or even hotel accommodation. Having travel insurance will also significantly facilitate the resolution of such problems.