What is the story about?
Flight fares from Chennai to domestic destinations in Tamil Nadu and nearby states have skyrocketed ahead of the long weekend triggered by Good Friday
and Easter, as a surge in travel demand has pushed ticket prices to steep levels, leaving passengers struggling with high costs. With a three-day consecutive holiday from Friday, a large number of residents from Chennai and its suburbs have begun booking flights to visit their hometowns or travel to tourist destinations. The sharp rise in demand has led to a spike in ticket prices across several routes. EXPLAINED - How Chennai Airport 2.0 Will Bring Bigger Planes, Faster Check-ins and Zero Chaos?
Fares Double Across Key Routes From Chennai
Airfares from Chennai to major destinations have more than doubled compared to regular rates. Tickets to Thoothukudi, which usually cost around Rs 6,503, have surged to Rs 17,021, while fares to Madurai have risen from Rs 5,467 to Rs 13,147. Similarly, flights to Coimbatore now cost Rs 16,496 compared to the usual Rs 4,966.
On other routes, fares have also seen sharp hikes. Tickets to Kochi have increased from Rs 4,840 to Rs 18,071, while Chennai to Bengaluru fares have jumped from Rs 3,071 to Rs 16,496. Flight fares to Hyderabad have also risen significantly to Rs 19,453 from Rs 4,779. Even routes like Tiruchirappalli and Salem have recorded noticeable increases.
Passengers Feel The Pinch Amid Holiday Rush
With domestic fares now nearing international ticket prices, passengers have expressed shock and frustration over the sudden spike. Many travellers said the cost has become a major burden, especially during peak holiday periods.
Also Read | Chennai International Airport to be privatised, 24 others in line
The steep hike has disrupted travel plans for many, particularly middle-class families hoping to make use of the long weekend for vacations or visits to their native places.
