In a letter dispatched in August, Vijay told the prime minister that the state’s industry‑friendly stance and its drive to attract investment demand an "excellent airport" and that the current operator, the Airports Authority of India (AAI), is falling short on passenger volume, aircraft movements and cargo handling.
The request comes as Tamil Nadu has recently shelved its proposed greenfield airport at Parandur and is instead focusing on expanding the existing Chennai facility while shortlisting two sites—Cheyyur and Gummidipoondi—for a second airport, a project that would take several years to materialise.
Air travellers have long pressed for privatisation, arguing that a private operator would improve upkeep, add more destinations and create a better ambience. Their frustration is amplified by delays in infrastructure projects such as the cab‑pick‑up point and the still‑under‑construction Terminal 3, as well as the time‑consuming approvals that must pass through AAI headquarters in New Delhi.
State officials said the letter has been sent and now hope the centre will act on the matter with priority, initiating steps toward privatising the airport’s operations. If successful, the shift could accelerate upgrades, streamline decision‑making and potentially boost Chennai’s status as a regional aviation hub.