In a leap forward towards integration of various modes of transport, Chennai Metro Rail Limited (CMRL) proposes to introduce airport check-in facility at its Chennai Central station.
“Flyers who wish to take the Metro to reach the airport can opt to complete check-in procedures and collect the boarding pass at Chennai Central metro station itself,” said a CMRL official.
The 24-km underground Metro network runs from Washermenpet to Chennai airport via Chennai Central.
Using this facility, flyers can directly board the flight upon reaching the airport.
“We may soon hold talks with officials of Airports Authority of India (AAI) to discuss the required facilities. Also, we need to approach various airlines to see which ones are interested in setting up check-in counters at the station,” he said.
The airport metro rail station — a five-level terminal spread over 17,300 sq. m. — is being constructed in such a way that Metro commuters can enter and exit from the airport terminals through a connecting passageway.
CMRL officials have identified the land where Buhari Hotel currently stands as the site for the facility.
“We have been fighting a case in the Madras High Court to acquire this piece of government land from the management of Buhari Hotel near Central station,” the official said.
“Security will be beefed up at this station since passengers will be required to complete check-in procedures there,” he said.
A similar city check-in facility is available at New Delhi airport metro station with Jet Airways and Air India extending the facility to domestic and international flyers.
