By Kavita Mistry 
Emirates, the world’s largest international airline, has completed 25 years of operations in Chennai, a key hub in its South India network. Since launching its first flight on 1 September 2000, the airline has carried more than 10.7 million passengers on over 38,000 flights between Dubai and Chennai.
Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, M.K. Stalin, joined Emirates’ celebration to mark the milestone, while Chennai International Airport commemorated the occasion with a water cannon salute for the arrival of EK544.
Mohammad Sarhan, Emirates’ Vice President – India and Nepal, said: “We are delighted to celebrate 25 years of service to Chennai and connecting its people to our global network. We would like to thank M.K Stalin, Chief Minister of Tamil Nadu, for joining us in our celebration, marking an important partnership that has grown from strength to strength over the years. The unwavering support of the authorities and all local stakeholders has been invaluable to the success of our operations and we extend our sincere gratitude on the occasion.”
Over the past two and a half decades, Emirates has enhanced Chennai’s global connectivity by providing access to its network across six continents. The airline has enabled businesses to reach new markets and supported demand from business travellers, leisure passengers, and the visiting friends and relatives segment. Popular destinations for passengers from Chennai include New York, San Francisco, Chicago, Washington D.C., Dallas, Boston, Seattle, Paris, London, Manchester, and Frankfurt. Emirates also carries strong inbound traffic into Chennai, particularly from Kuwait and North America.
Emirates SkyCargo has been a significant driver of trade, transporting high-value and time-sensitive commodities such as fresh produce, pharmaceuticals, electronics, and engineering goods. In the last financial year alone, the carrier uplifted 19,300 tonnes of cargo from Chennai, strengthening export opportunities for local farmers, manufacturers, and businesses.
Emirates continues to offer travellers its signature Fly Better experience across all cabins, including fully enclosed First Class suites, direct aisle access in Business Class, and award-winning inflight entertainment with over 6,500 channels. Passengers can enjoy regionally inspired cuisine, including vegan options, alongside curated wine and beverage selections.
As Emirates marks this 25-year milestone, the airline reaffirmed its commitment to Chennai’s people, industries, and economy. Emirates will continue to expand access to global markets, strengthen cultural ties, and support the city’s role as a vital South India gateway.
