Affordable food options have now arrived at Chennai airport with the launch of ‘Udaan Yatri Cafe,’ an initiative aimed at addressing the long-standing issue of overpriced food and beverages at airports. The move comes months after a similar outlet was introduced at Kolkata airport, and has been welcomed by AAP Rajya Sabha MP Raghav Chadha, who had previously raised this concern in Parliament.

Sharing a video clip of his speech on social media platform X, Chadha expressed his satisfaction, stating, “A small spark can light up the darkest skies… First Kolkata, now Chennai! Glad to see affordable food canteens being set up at Airports. Grateful to everyone who supported my demand for affordable food and drinks at airports. Congratulations to each one of you - every drop together makes the ocean rise." He further added that he would continue advocating for public interest issues and encouraged people to share their suggestions.

Chadha had brought attention to the exorbitant pricing of food and beverages at airports during the discussion on the Indian Aviation Bill 2024 in the Winter Session of Parliament. Highlighting the issue, he remarked, “A water bottle costs ₹100, and tea is priced at ₹200-250. Can’t the government establish affordable canteens at airports?” Additionally, he pointed out the challenges travelers face, such as long queues, overcrowding, and disorganized airport operations.

The launch of ‘Udaan Yatri Cafe’ at Kolkata’s Netaji Subhas Chandra Bose International Airport was first announced as a pilot project in December last year. At the time, Chadha had termed the move a “positive step” and expressed hope that it would be expanded to all airports nationwide. The initiative ensures that air travelers are not compelled to pay exorbitant prices for essential items like water, tea, and coffee.

The aviation ministry had earlier stated that if successful, similar food joints would be established at other airports managed by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). Civil Aviation Minister Rammohan Naidu Kinjarapu inaugurated the Kolkata outlet as part of the celebrations marking 100 years of the airport. Now, with Chennai following suit, the initiative is set to provide much-needed relief to passengers seeking affordable refreshment options while traveling.