The Chennai International Airport is a bustling hub of air travel featuring a whirlwind of passenger activity. But, amidst the usual hustle and bustle lies a tranquil place of importance, known as the TFS Lounge. Primarily handled by airport authorities, it is the epitome of comfort and convenience, offering a welcoming respite from the typical frenetic pace of the airport, ultimately allowing passengers to relax and prepare for their subsequent flights.

As of the present day, TFS (Travel And Food Services) operates two lounges each for the domestic as well as international terminals at Chennai International Airport. The domestic lounges can be found near Gate 1 and Gate 5, while the international lounges are located near Gate 11 and Gate 17. It should be known that out of the four aforementioned lounges, the ones near Gate 1 and Gate 17 are the newest of the lot. Thus, you can expect better interiors and facilities with the newly developed ones, compared to the old. With that being said, if you are looking to spend some quality time at any of the TFS lounges mentioned beforehand, then our in-depth guide explaining the entry process and features can come in handy.

Know the List of Cards Accepted

According to the TFS Lounge, passengers owning any debit or credit card having a complimentary airport lounge facility will be accepted for entry. So, whether you are using American Express credit cards or Rupay-branded Platinum debit cards, you will be good to go.

Some of the supported debit cards include RBL Signature Plus Debit Card, AU Royale VISA Signature Debit Card, HDFC EasyShop Platinum Debit Card, Axis Priority Platinum Debit Card, ICICI Bank Coral Debit Card, SBI Platinum Debit Card, and IndusInd Signature Exclusive Debit Card.

Similarly, some of the supported credit cards include the American Express Platinum Travel Credit Card, Axis Magnus Credit Card, HDFC Infinia Credit Card, SBI Air India Signature Credit Card, IDFC First Wealth Credit Card, and Standard Chartered Ultimate Credit Card.

Additionally, you also get access to ‘Priority Pass,’ provided you have a membership under the same as well.

How to Pay and Access Without a Card

If you do not have a valid debit or credit card that supports complimentary airport lounge access, then you can alternatively head over to the TFS Lounge at Chennai International Airport, simply by paying the requisite walk-in fee. To do that, follow the required steps recommended below.

  1. Firstly, head over to the TFS Lounge of your choice – either in the domestic or the international terminal.
  2. Once you are at the lounge, proceed to head over to the reception area and ask for a walk-in entry.
  3. You will be asked to pay a requisite fee for the amenities, food, and beverages provided, along with taxes.
  4. Once you pay the required amount, you will be allowed entry into the lounge for a maximum time limit of four hours.

Highlights You Should Know

Does not matter if you are a first-time flyer or a veteran globetrotter, the TFS Lounge at the Chennai International Airport offers you an atmosphere of refined elegance. Whether you are visiting the new or the old lounge in either the domestic or international terminal – the interiors of the lounges have been carefully modernized to provide ample seating options for passengers while also providing a relaxing décor. As a result, you will immediately notice the inviting ambiance where you can properly unwind yourself, without anyone disturbing you.

At any of the TFS Lounges, you will be able to get your professional work completed or socialize with your colleagues or family members – as you wish – since the place goes beyond just mere relaxation by offering a host of amenities to make your journey feel seamless and exciting. For instance, you get access to high-speed wireless internet connectivity at no extra cost and plenty of charging stations to keep your electronic items juiced up. And with enough desk space, you do not have to worry about your professional work getting sacrificed.

Talking about the culinary delights at the TFS Lounge, you get access to a respectable spread of local and international cuisine. From a refreshing selection of beverages to savory snacks to mouthwatering main courses – with a hint of desserts – there is no doubt that the food and beverage options offered can easily cater to every palate of every passenger. So, if you are looking for a quick bite or a proper meal, you will not be disappointed. However, the culinary spread can be a little better with more international cuisine options.

Besides the usual tidbits mentioned above, the service remains fine for the most part, albeit a bit slow, due to the amount of human traffic that the lounge staff have to comply with on a day-to-day basis. Having said that, the TFS Lounge at Chennai’s airport has the capability to be one of the best lounges in the country, as it continues to improve its overall operations.

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Travel Guide,

Last Update: November 20, 2023