Lucknow to Chennai Flights: ₹2,000+ Savings Guide [Updated April 2025]

Hi, Lucknow Travellers, Planning a trip from the city of nawabs to the gateway of South India? Whether you’re traveling for business, visiting family, or exploring Tamil Nadu’s vibrant capital, finding the Lucknow to Chennai flights can make all the difference in your journey.

As someone who has personally flown this route multiple times over the years, I have gathered insights that go beyond just booking the cheapest ticket. In this comprehensive travel guide, we will explore everything you need to know about flying from Lucknow to Chennai—from the airlines that operate on this route to seasonal pricing patterns and insider tips that can save you both money and hassle.

The air route between these two culturally rich cities spans approximately 1,550 kilometers, connecting North and South India in just a few hours. What used to be a grueling 30+ hour train journey can now be completed in less than 3 hours on a direct flight. Talk about progress!

Let’s read out the details that will help you plan the perfect journey from Lucknow to Chennai.

Airlines Operating Lucknow to Chennai Routes

Several airlines operate flights between Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport in Lucknow and Chennai International Airport. Each carrier offers different advantages, schedules, and price points.

IndiGo

IndiGo dominates this route with the highest frequency of flights. They typically operate 2-3 daily flights, including both direct and connecting options. Their consistency and punctuality make them a popular choice among regular travelers.

Air India

The national carrier offers both direct and connecting services between Lucknow and Chennai. Their flights often connect via Delhi or Mumbai, providing more routing options.

SpiceJet

SpiceJet provides budget-friendly alternatives, though they typically offer only connecting flights on this route via cities like Delhi, Mumbai, or Hyderabad.

Vistara

For those seeking a premium experience, Vistara offers connecting flights with excellent service standards and a three-class cabin configuration on many routes.

Alliance Air

This regional subsidiary of Air India sometimes offers connectivity, though schedules may be limited and typically involve multiple stops.

Pro tip: If you’re a frequent flyer between these cities, consider joining the loyalty programs of IndiGo (6E Rewards) or Air India (Flying Returns), as these carriers offer the most consistent service on this route. Just a few round trips could earn you enough points for benefits on future journeys.

Lucknow To Chennai Flights Duration and Schedules

The journey between Lucknow and Chennai varies significantly depending on whether you’re taking a direct flight or one with connections.

Direct Flights

Direct flights between Lucknow and Chennai typically take between 2.5 to 3 hours gate-to-gate. IndiGo and occasionally Air India offer these non-stop services, saving you valuable time.

The direct flight path takes you over central India, passing near cities like Jabalpur, Nagpur, and Hyderabad before descending into Chennai. If you are seated by the window, you might catch glimpses of the Vindhya Range, the winding Godavari River, and eventually the Bay of Bengal as you approach Chennai.

Lucknow To Chennai Direct flights usually depart Lucknow in the early morning (around 6:00-8:00 AM) or late evening (after 8:00 PM). These timings allow for business travelers to complete a full day of work at their destination.

Connecting Flights From Lucknow To Chennai

Connecting flights can take anywhere from 4 to 7 hours total journey time, depending on the layover duration. The most common connection points include:

• Delhi (DEL): 1-1.5 hour flight from Lucknow, then 2.5-3 hours to Chennai.
• Mumbai (BOM): 2 hour flight from Lucknow, then 2 hours to Chennai.
• Hyderabad (HYD): 2 hour flight from Lucknow, then 1-1.5 hours to Chennai.

While connecting flights take longer, they often offer more schedule flexibility and sometimes lower fares. They are particularly useful if you need to depart at a specific time that direct flights don’t serve.

Remember that monsoon weather (June-September) can affect flight durations, especially when approaching Chennai, where weather delays are more common during the northeast monsoon (October-December).

Direct vs. Connecting Flights

Choosing between direct and connecting flights involves weighing several factors beyond just the price difference.

When to Choose Direct Flights From Lucknow To Chennai

Direct flights are ideal in these scenarios:

• When time is your primary concern.
• For business trips with tight schedules.
• When traveling with young children or elderly companions.
• If you have mobility issues that make connections challenging.
• During monsoon season when delays are more likely.

A direct flight eliminates the stress of making connections and the risk of missing a connecting flight due to delays. The current direct options are primarily operated by IndiGo, with occasional Air India direct services.

The aircraft typically used on direct routes are Airbus A320 family aircraft (A320/A321). For the most comfortable experience on these planes, try securing seats in rows 1-3 or the emergency exit rows (usually 12-14, but varies by aircraft configuration).

When Connecting Flights Make Sense

Consider connecting flight from Lucknow to Chennai when:

• The price difference is significant (often ₹2,000-3,000 cheaper).
• Direct flights don’t match your preferred departure time.
• You would like to break up a journey with a longer layover.
• You are collecting miles/points in an airline program that doesn’t offer direct flights.
• You prefer a specific airline that only offers connecting service.

If you do opt for a connecting flight, here are some strategic tips:

• Delhi connections: Aim for at least 1.5 hours connection time, as terminal transfers might be needed between domestic flights.
• Mumbai connections: A minimum 2-hour connection is recommended due to potential congestion.
• Hyderabad connections: The most efficient connection point, with a well-designed single terminal and minimum connection times of just 45-60 minutes.

Smart layover planning can actually enhance your journey. For instance, a 4-5 hour layover in Delhi gives you enough time to visit the Plaza Premium Lounge (accessible with certain credit cards or for a fee) or enjoy a proper meal at restaurants like Cafe Delhi Heights rather than rushing between gates.

Best Time to Book Your Tickets

Timing is everything when booking flights between Lucknow and Chennai, and planning ahead can save you thousands of rupees.

The Booking Window Sweet Spot

Based on historical pricing data for this route:

• Domestic flights are typically cheapest 60-90 days before departure.
• Last-minute bookings (less than 7 days before travel) usually incur premiums of 30-40%.
• Booking too far ahead (more than 120 days) rarely offers the best deals.

For this specific route, Thursday and Saturday departures tend to offer the best value throughout the year. Early morning flights (6:00-9:00 AM) are generally cheaper than evening departures, which are preferred by business travelers.

Day of Week Differences

The day you choose to fly can significantly impact pricing:

• Tuesday and Wednesday typically show the lowest average fares.
• Friday and Sunday are usually the most expensive.
• Monday tends to be popular with business travelers, pushing prices higher.

This pattern is even more pronounced during holiday periods when weekend travel demand surges.

Setting Up Fare Alerts

Don’t have time to constantly check prices? Set up fare alerts using tools like:

• TourotIndia Fare Check.
• Skyscanner fare alerts.
• MakeMyTrip price tracking.
• Google Flights price tracking,
• Airline-specific notifications through their apps.

These services will email you when prices drop for your desired travel dates, helping you catch temporary fare drops that might last just a few hours.

Seasonal Price Variations

Flight prices between Lucknow and Chennai fluctuate significantly throughout the year, following predictable patterns you can use to your advantage.

High Season Pricing

Expect premium pricing during:

• December-January: Peak holiday season with Christmas, New Year, and Pongal celebrations.
• May-June: Summer holidays when families travel.
• Diwali period: Usually October-November, when many North Indians visit South India.
• Pongal/Tamil harvest festival: Mid-January.

During these periods, fares can be 40-70% higher than baseline prices. Book at least 90 days in advance for these periods to avoid the steepest premiums.

Low Season Opportunities

Look for deals during:

• July-September: Monsoon season in Chennai means fewer tourists.
• February: Post-holiday lull before summer travel begins.
• Early November: The brief window between Diwali and year-end travel.
• Weekday travel in August: One of the quietest travel months.

During these periods, last-minute deals are more common, and you might find fares 20-30% below average. Airlines often run flash sales targeting these slower periods—IndiGo’s “festive sales” despite being in off-peak seasons are a prime example.

Weather Impact on Pricing and Reliability

Chennai experiences cyclone season typically from October to December, while Lucknow sees dense fog in December and January. These weather patterns affect both pricing and flight reliability:

• Flights during Chennai’s cyclone season may be cheaper but come with higher cancellation risk.
• Early morning departures from Lucknow during winter fog season (December-January) face frequent delays.
• The most reliable weather windows with moderate pricing are February-March and September-October.

If you’re traveling during potential weather disruption periods, consider:

• Booking morning flights to Chennai during cyclone season (when storms typically intensify in the afternoon).
• Avoiding early morning departures from Lucknow during winter.
• Building in buffer days if your travel plans are time-sensitive.

Business vs. Economy: Is the Upgrade Worth It?

The Lucknow-Chennai route offers varying class options depending on the airline. Is paying extra for premium service worth it on this relatively short domestic route?

True Business Class Options

On this route, only Air India and Vistara offer a true business class experience:

Air India Business Class

• 2-2 configuration with 42″ pitch seats.
• Hot meals with multiple courses.
• Lounge access at both airports.
• 35kg baggage allowance.
• Priority check-in, boarding, and baggage handling.

Vistara Business Class (on connecting flights)

• 2-2 configuration with more modern seats.
• Superior dining with premium beverages.
• More attentive service with higher staff-to-passenger ratio.
• Lounge access and priority services.
• 35kg baggage allowance.

The business class premium on this route typically ranges from ₹8,000-12,000 above economy fares. This represents a 70-120% price increase over standard economy.

Premium Economy Middle Ground

Vistara offers Premium Economy on their connecting flights:

• Extra 3-4″ of legroom compared to economy.
• Enhanced dining options.
• Dedicated check-in counters.
• Additional baggage allowance (5kg over standard economy).
• Seats in the front section of the aircraft.

This option typically costs ₹2,500-4,000 above standard economy fares (a 25-40% premium).

Enhanced Economy Options

Budget carriers offer their own premium seating options:

IndiGo Fast Forward

• Seats in rows 1-3.
• Priority check-in and boarding.
• Additional legroom.
• Costs approximately ₹600-800 extra.

SpiceJet SpiceMax

• Extra legroom seats (usually exit rows).
• Priority services.
• Complimentary meal.
• Costs approximately ₹700-900 extra.

Value Assessment

Based on passenger feedback and personal experience:

• For business travelers: Business class is worth considering primarily if you need to work or arrive rested for immediate meetings. The value proposition is strongest on Air India’s direct flights.
• For leisure travelers: Premium Economy offers the best value-to-cost ratio on this route, particularly on Vistara’s connecting flights.
• For budget-conscious travelers: IndiGo’s Fast Forward or exit row seating provides meaningful comfort improvement for minimal cost.

Remember that on short domestic routes under 3 hours, the time spent enjoying premium cabin benefits is limited, making the value proposition different from long-haul international flights.

Airport Information: Lucknow

Chaudhary Charan Singh International Airport (LKO) in Lucknow has seen significant modernization in recent years, making your departure experience smoother than ever.

Terminal Information

All domestic flights operate from Terminal 1, a modern facility that opened in 2012. The terminal features:

• 20 check-in counters.
• Modern security screening area.
• Several food outlets and shops.
• Free Wi-Fi (limited to 30 minutes).
• Air-conditioned waiting areas.

Getting to the Airport

The airport is located about 15km from the city center:

• Taxi: Pre-paid taxi service from the city costs approximately ₹400-600.
• App-based cabs: Uber and Ola operate to/from the airport, typically costing ₹350-500 from most central locations.
• Auto-rickshaw: Available but not recommended with luggage.
• Public transport: Limited bus service available.

Pro tip: Traffic in Lucknow can be unpredictable, especially during rush hours (9-11 AM and 5-7 PM). Add at least 30 minutes to your estimated travel time during these periods.

Check-in and Security

• Domestic check-in typically opens 2 hours before departure.
• Security lines are generally efficient but can get crowded between 7-9 AM and 6-8 PM.
• Aim to reach the airport at least 90 minutes before your flight.

Airport Amenities

• Food options: Cafe Coffee Day, Subway, and some local cuisine outlets.
• Shopping: Limited but includes essential travel items and local souvenirs.
• Lounges: Travel Club Lounge (accessible with premium credit cards or paid entry).
• Charging stations: Available throughout the terminal.
• Prayer room: Available near Gate 3.

Airport Information: Chennai

Chennai International Airport (MAA) has two closely connected domestic terminals (2 and 3) where your flight from Lucknow will arrive.

Terminal Information

Most flights from Lucknow arrive at Terminal 1 (domestic arrivals). The terminal features:

• Modern baggage claim area with multiple carousels.
• Several transport options immediately outside.
• Air-conditioned arrival hall.
• Information counters for tourists.

Getting from the Airport to the City

Chennai Airport is located about 15-20km from the city center:

• Prepaid taxi: Available immediately outside arrivals, costs about ₹500-700 to the city center.
• App-based cabs: Uber and Ola have designated pickup points, typically cost ₹400-600.
• Metro: Chennai Airport Metro Station connects directly to the terminal, providing affordable transport to key city locations.
• Airport bus: Operated by MTC, connects to multiple points in the city.

Pro tip: Chennai’s traffic peaks between 9-11 AM and 5-8 PM. Travel times to central areas like T. Nagar or Marina Beach can double during these hours.

Baggage Collection

• Baggage typically begins arriving 15-20 minutes after landing.
• Priority tagged luggage (business class, airline status holders) comes out first.
• Oversized baggage is usually delivered to a separate area near the main carousels.

Airport Services

• Currency exchange: Available in the arrivals area.
• SIM card counters: Multiple providers offer tourist SIMs.
• Tourist information: Tamil Nadu Tourism counter provides maps and guidance.
• Wheelchair assistance: Available with advance notice to your airline.
• First aid: Medical station available near the exit.

Baggage Allowance Tips

Understanding baggage allowances can prevent unexpected charges at the airport. Here’s what to know for the Lucknow-Chennai route:

Standard Allowances by Airline

• Air India: 25kg checked baggage + 8kg hand baggage.
• IndiGo: 15kg checked baggage + 7kg hand baggage.
• SpiceJet: 15kg checked baggage + 7kg hand baggage.
• Vistara: 20kg checked baggage + 7kg hand baggage.
• Alliance Air: 15kg checked baggage + 7kg hand baggage.

Excess Baggage Rates

Excess baggage charges on this route typically range from:

• ₹400-600 per additional kg when pre-booked online.
• ₹700-900 per additional kg when paid at the airport.

Smart Packing for Chennai’s Climate

Chennai’s climate differs significantly from Lucknow’s:

• Year-round warm temperatures (rarely below 20°C even in winter).
• High humidity levels (70-80% average).
• Occasional heavy rainfall during monsoon season.

Pack accordingly with:

• Lightweight, breathable clothing (cotton works best).
• Sun protection (hats, sunglasses, sunscreen).
• Umbrella during monsoon season (October-December).
• Comfortable walking shoes that can handle occasional puddles.

Consider leaving heavy winter clothing at home even when traveling in December-January, as Chennai rarely experiences temperatures below 20°C.

Making the Most of Your Trip

Arriving in Chennai from Lucknow, you’ll be experiencing a city with distinctly different culture, cuisine, and climate. Here’s how to make the most of your visit:

Top 5 Must-Visit Attractions In Chennai

• Marina Beach: The second-longest urban beach in the world.
• Kapaleeshwarar Temple: Ancient Dravidian architecture in Mylapore.
• Fort St. George: Historic British fortress and museum.
• Government Museum: One of the oldest museums in India.
• San Thome Basilica: Historic church built over the tomb of St. Thomas.

Food Exploration

Coming from Lucknow’s rich Awadhi cuisine, Chennai offers entirely different flavors:

• Dosa and Idli: Try authentic South Indian breakfast at Murugan Idli Shop or Saravana Bhavan.
• Filter Coffee: Experience the perfect brew at Kumbakonam Degree Coffee outlets.
• Chettinad Cuisine: Sample spicy specialties at Ponnusamy or Anjappar.
• Seafood: Fresh catches at Marina or restaurants like Maplai.
• Street Food: Explore Sowcarpet area for North Indian influences mixed with local flavors.

Cultural Adjustment Tips

• Chennai generally observes earlier dining times than Lucknow (lunch around 1 PM, dinner by 8 PM).
• English is widely spoken, but learning a few Tamil phrases is appreciated.
• Dress modestly when visiting temples (covered shoulders and knees).
• Chennai’s pace is generally more relaxed compared to North Indian cities.
• Filter water is commonly offered at restaurants instead of regular water.

Day Trips Worth Considering

If you’re staying more than a few days:

• Mahabalipuram: Ancient shore temples and rock carvings (1.5 hours from Chennai).
• Pondicherry: French colonial influence with unique architecture (3 hours from Chennai).
• Kanchipuram: Famous for temples and silk sarees (2 hours from Chennai).
• Vedanthangal Bird Sanctuary: Perfect for wildlife enthusiasts (1.5 hours from Chennai).

FAQs

Conclusion

The Lucknow to Chennai route connects two cities with rich, distinctive cultural heritage. Whether you are traveling for business, family visits, or tourism, understanding the flight options, timing your booking strategically, and knowing what to expect at both ends of your journey can make your travel experience significantly smoother.

From the Nawabi elegance of Lucknow to the Dravidian grandeur of Chennai, this journey bridges North and South India in just a few hours—a testament to how air travel has transformed our ability to experience India’s diverse cultural landscape.

Remember that flight schedules and services change periodically, so always verify the latest information with your chosen airline before booking. Safe travels as you fly from the city of kebabs and chikankari to the land of idli, dosa, and classical Carnatic music!

This guide was last updated on April 18, 2025. For the most current flight information, please check with airlines directly or consult our flight schedule tool.

Did you find this guide helpful? Share your travel experiences or tips for this route in the comments below!

Planning a return journey? Check out our Complete Guide to Flights from Chennai to Lucknow for specialized information on the return leg.