Chennai airport to get sanitary napkin vending machines, AAI says work awarded

The Airports Authority of India (AAI) has announced that sanitary napkin vending machines will be installed at Chennai airport in the near future. Officials confirmed that the contract for this initiative has already been awarded to a firm, and installation work is expected to commence shortly.

According to AAI officials, sanitary napkins are currently available at the terminals, with signages placed in washrooms and frisking booths to guide passengers. “If a passenger asks, it will be provided within two minutes,” an official said. The vending machines are being introduced to make the process more convenient and accessible.

The move is part of AAI's broader efforts to improve passenger amenities and address the needs of women travellers. By automating the distribution of sanitary napkins, the airport aims to ensure that essential hygiene products are readily available at all times, reducing dependency on manual requests and staff assistance.

Chennai airport, one of the busiest in southern India, handles a large volume of domestic and international passengers daily. The installation of vending machines is expected to enhance the overall travel experience, particularly for women, by offering a discreet and efficient way to access sanitary products.

While no specific timeline has been provided for the completion of the installation, officials expressed confidence that the machines would be operational soon. The project reflects a growing recognition of the importance of menstrual hygiene management in public spaces, a topic that has gained increasing attention in recent years.

This initiative aligns with national campaigns promoting women's health and dignity. Several other airports and public institutions across India have already taken similar steps, and Chennai airport's decision brings it in line with this positive trend.

Passengers and advocacy groups have welcomed the announcement, noting that such facilities are essential for ensuring comfort and safety. However, some have also emphasised the need for regular maintenance and refilling of the machines to ensure their effectiveness.

AAI officials did not disclose the financial details of the contract but stated that the vending machines would be placed at strategic locations within the terminals. They also mentioned that existing arrangements for providing sanitary napkins on request would continue until the machines are fully operational.

The development is a small but meaningful step toward making public infrastructure more inclusive and responsive to the needs of all citizens. As airports continue to modernise, such attention to detail will play a crucial role in shaping passenger satisfaction.