After 68 years, AI flight connecting Madurai and Chennai to stop operations from Oct. 25
Air India Express is set to discontinue its long-standing Chennai-Madurai flight route on October 25, citing commercial non-viability. Local travel operators have expressed concern over the decision, noting that it grants a monopoly to Indigo on this sector.
Why it matters
The reduction in flight options impacts regional connectivity and consumer choice, sparking debate over airline route management and regional neglect.
The Chennai- Madurai- Chennai sector flight operated by Air India (AI) Express might be stopped from October 25, reliable sources in the airline industry said on Friday (September 4, 2026).
The flight, which was being operated for 68 long years on the route by both Indian Airlines and Air India, was not only popular among frequent flight users, but also traveller-friendly as the air fare was relatively affordable, operators told The Hindu .
With the closure of the sector by AI Express, the route will become monopoly for Indigo, which operates over five flights daily between the two cities.
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