For 68 years, it has been a reliable link between two of Tamil Nadu’s key cities—but that era is coming to a close. Air India Express will halt its Chennai-Madurai-Chennai flight operations starting October 25, 2026, industry sources confirmed on September 4. The move ends a long-standing service once operated by both Indian Airlines and Air India, cherished for its affordability and popularity among travelers.

Key facts

  • Flight ends after 68 years of operation
  • Indigo becomes sole operator with over 5 daily flights
  • Last departure: October 25, 2026

A Route Left to One

With Air India Express stepping away, low-cost carrier Indigo will hold a monopoly on the route, operating more than five flights each day between the cities. The exit raises practical concerns—and some frustration—among local travel professionals.

Questions and Pushback

Air India cited poor patronage and cost issues, but travel agents pushed back. On the same Friday the news broke, 159 passengers flew from Chennai to Madurai on the airline, with about 70 returning to Chennai. The flight’s schedule was straightforward: depart Chennai at 10:15 a.m., arrive Madurai 11:30 a.m.; return left at noon, landing in Chennai at 1:10 p.m.

“When Air India claimed it was no longer viable to operate its flights on the Chennai-Madurai sector, how would it be possible to make it commercially viable to ply between Madurai and Bengaluru?” — Travel agents and tour operators

Broader Implications

Local operators worry the loss could hurt tourism, especially during the October-March peak season when foreign travelers visit for festivals like Dasara, Deepavali, Christmas, and Pongal. Some agents are urging southern MPs to meet with the Union Aviation Minister, questioning why Madurai seems overlooked while Tiruchi gains new routes to Hyderabad, Singapore, and UAE destinations.