CHENNAI: A massive influx of devotees traveling to the famed Sabarimala temple in Kerala has led to a severe strain on air connectivity from Chennai, resulting in airfares skyrocketing to over three times their normal rate and a reduction in direct flight services compared to last year.

With a significant number of pilgrims hailing from Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, there has been a notable shift from traditional train and road travel to air journeys to save time. Devotees are increasingly flying to Kochi (Cochin) and then proceeding to Sabarimala by road.

While the Airports Authority of India (AAI) has facilitated pilgrims by allowing them to carry coconuts in their hand luggage until January 20, 2026, this concession has been overshadowed by travel woes. The surge in demand has caused an unprecedented rush on the Chennai-Kochi-Chennai sector.

Consequently, airfares have soared. The usual one-way fare of approximately Rs 3,681 has jumped to a range of Rs 10,500 to Rs 11,500 for direct flights. In some cases, passengers unable to find direct tickets are forced to take connecting flights via Bengaluru, with tickets costing upwards of Rs 17,000.

Compounding the problem is a reduction in flight frequency. During last year's Sabarimala season, a total of 18 daily flights (9 each way) operated between Chennai and Kochi. This year, only 14 total flights (7 each way) are in operation—a reduction of four flights daily. This shortage of seats amid soaring demand has left many pilgrims in distress.

Passengers and pilgrim associations are now urging the AAI and airlines to intervene. They appeal that, having granted special baggage allowances for pilgrims' convenience, authorities should also ensure adequate flight services by operating additional flights for the remainder of the pilgrimage season to alleviate the hardship faced by devotees.