In a significant development, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) is all set to assume control of the multi-level car parking facility at Chennai airport which could bring in much-awaited relief for passengers. AAI also plans to start the second pick-up point for boarding cabs in a month’s time.

A few months ago, the contractor handling the Aero Hub, which houses of food, retail outlets, parking area and cab pick-up, submitted his termination notice to AAI unwilling to continue at the airport. Following it, discussions were held at New Delhi regarding management of the facility.

Recently, the AAI board made a decision that it will take control of the multi-level car parking facility for now. As far as the retail and food outlets are concerned, those willing to continue with AAI can do so and there may not be any issue, sources said.

For almost a year now, many passengers have been unhappy over lugging their baggage to the second floor of the Aero Hub to take a taxi. Though AAI runs buggy services, passengers wanted AAI to reinstate the old cab pick-up point opposite to the T1 Domestic Terminal.

To address the issue, AAI decided to have two cab pick-up points — one in the Aero Hub and the second at the same spot as the old arrangement of boarding from the National Flag point opposite to the T1 Terminal – accessible when the plaza construction comes to an end.

The plaza — a space for passengers to relax and unwind — has been shaping up opposite to the T1 domestic terminal. Despite numerous delays, it may be finally ready in a few weeks. Air passengers have been keenly anticipating the plaza facility as they can take cabs from this location. Meanwhile, AAI has floated fresh bids to manage the parking and cab-pick up.