Flying from San Francisco International (SFO) to Chennai (MAA): what you need to know
The timezone in Chennai is UTC+5:30, which is 13 hours 30 minutes ahead of San Francisco.
For a smooth journey, turn up at the airport two hours ahead of international flights and one hour before domestic departures. This way, you can comfortably board your SFO to MAA flight.
During popular months such as July, you'll want to get to the airport well in advance. Arrive two hours before domestic departures and four hours ahead for an international flight whenever you're flying during a peak period in general.
If you'd like to include a stop along the way, simply deselect 'Direct flights only' when searching for your ticket from San Francisco International to Chennai. Here are the top stopovers between SFO and MAA:
Delhi Indira Gandhi International
Dubai
Bengaluru
How to find the cheapest flights from San Francisco International (SFO) to Chennai (MAA)
₹ 35,064 is currently the best price for a one-way San Francisco International to Chennai flight. Return flights start from ₹ 68,314. These prices may change based on demand and availability.
Don't wait until the last moment. You're more likely to get cheap tickets from SFO to MAA if you book in advance. Airlines often have some great early bird discounts.
Getting cheap flights from San Francisco International to Chennai is more likely if you can be flexible with your trip dates. Use the 'Whole month' search function to see the lowest fares throughout the month and score a great deal.
Stay on top of deals for cheap flights from SFO to MAA by setting up a Price Alert. You'll receive an email or push notification on the app when a lower fare pops up.
Secure the right flight for you by using the filters. To see the 'Best,' 'Fastest' or 'Cheapest' flights from San Francisco International to Chennai, use the 'Sort by' tool. You can also filter results by departure and arrival times, airline, and number of stops.
Handy information about San Francisco International (SFO)
When it comes to the on-time performance of San Francisco International, data shows 78% of flights stick to their scheduled arrival time.
Central San Francisco to San Francisco International is approximately 21 kilometres. Depending on traffic, it'll take about 25 minutes to get there if you're driving, ride-sharing or catching a taxi.
Planning to take public transport? Expect a journey time of around 35 minutes.
Need a handy hotel close to SFO? If you've booked an early flight from San Francisco International to Chennai, these stays will have you moments from check-in:
What is the baggage allowance on flights from San Francisco International Airport (SFO) to Chennai Airport (MAA)?
Most airlines offering flights from SFO to MAA include a carry-on bag with standard fares, though baggage allowances vary by airline and ticket type. Here is what you can expect with the main airlines operating this route:
Singapore Airlines
Carry-on allowance: 7kg cabin bag plus personal item
Checked baggage: 23kg included with some economy fares
Departure terminal: San Francisco International Airport (SFO), International Terminal
Arrival terminal: Chennai Airport (MAA), International Terminal
Check-in counters: Open 3 hours before departure
Emirates
Carry-on allowance: 7kg cabin bag up to 55x38x25cm plus personal item
Checked baggage: 30kg included with some economy fares
Departure terminal: San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Terminal 3
Arrival terminal: Chennai Airport (MAA), Terminal 1
Check-in counters: Open 3 hours before departure
British Airways
Carry-on allowance: 23kg cabin bag plus personal item
Checked baggage: 23kg included with some economy fares
Departure terminal: San Francisco International Airport (SFO), Terminal 7
Arrival terminal: Chennai Airport (MAA), Terminal 4
Check-in counters: Opens 3 hours before departure, closes 60 minutes before
You can access comprehensive facilities at San Francisco International Airport (SFO) including complimentary Wi-Fi throughout all terminals, numerous dining options and retail shops, and dedicated baby care rooms for families travelling with young children. The airport also provides currency exchange services, ATMs, and baggage storage facilities to meet your travel needs. San Francisco International Airport (SFO) offers efficient transport connections including BART rail service, airport shuttles, and various ground transportation options to help you reach your destination.
Arriving at Chennai (MAA)
The last thing you want is a long journey to your hotel if you're getting in late on a San Francisco International to Chennai flight. Book one of these accommodation options near MAA instead:
Hit the road running by picking up a Chennai rental car. Grab your wheels from Avis, Europcar or North Car Hire to explore Chennai and beyond.
Booking your ride from Chennai about three weeks ahead boosts your odds of scoring a great price.
Getting from Chennai (MAA) to central Chennai
Chennai is roughly 21 kilometres from the centre of Chennai. The drive time takes around 35 minutes.
If you're travelling on public transport, expect a journey of around 1 hour.
When to fly to Chennai (MAA)
January is the most popular month for flights from San Francisco International to Chennai. To avoid the crowds, visit Chennai in January.
The warmest month in Chennai is May, with the temperature ranging between 28ºC and 37ºC. Lock in your flights from San Francisco International to Chennai in this month if you like this kind of weather.
If you like cooler conditions, search for a cheap ticket from SFO to MAA in January. Average temperatures are between 21ºC and 28ºC then.
Weather snapshot
The weather in Chennai features a tropical climate with warm temperatures, high humidity, and distinct monsoon seasons that shape the city's rhythm. Here's what to expect throughout the year:
December – February: Chennai's cool, dry winter months are among the best times to explore Chennai, with gentle breezes and sunshine making outdoor activities enjoyable. Pack light cotton clothes and a thin jacket for occasional cool evenings.
March – May: Summer arrives with hot, dry weather that intensifies as May approaches. You'll find early mornings and late evenings most enjoyable for outdoor activities, so plan your sightseeing accordingly.
June – September: The monsoon season brings warm temperatures with frequent rain showers that cool the city. Light, quick-dry clothing works best for the humid conditions. Indoor attractions and covered markets offer excellent shelter between downpours, while the refreshing rains make evening walks particularly enjoyable.
October – November: Post-monsoon season brings welcome relief with fresher air and moderate temperatures perfect for exploring outdoor attractions and sightseeing around the city without the earlier humidity.
Sightseeing and travel inspiration
Chennai blends traditional South Indian culture with modern city life, famous for its classical music, dance performances, and film industry. The coastal city offers ancient temples, British colonial architecture, and some of the region's best street food. Whether you're planning flights to Chennai for business or leisure, you'll find a city where centuries-old traditions meet contemporary urban living.
Things to do in Chennai: Stroll along Marina Beach, one of the longest urban beaches stretching 13 kilometres east of the city centre, where you can watch fishermen at work and catch the sunrise. Head to Besant Nagar Beach about 15 kilometres south for swimming and beach volleyball, or explore the weekend markets at Pondy Bazaar, roughly 8 kilometres southwest, where you can browse local textiles and street food.
Cultural experiences: Watch classical Bharatanatyam performances at Kalakshetra Foundation, about 8 kilometres south of the city centre, or admire centuries-old architecture at Kapaleeshwarar Temple in Mylapore, roughly 6 kilometres southeast. Sample traditional South Indian breakfast at local eateries in George Town, around 3 kilometres north, and browse handwoven textiles and bronze sculptures at government emporiums in the T. Nagar district.
Seasonal highlights: Experience the Chennai Music Season during December and January when classical Carnatic performances fill venues across the city. The cooler months from November to February offer the best time to visit Chennai for exploring Marina Beach and local temples without intense heat. Celebrate Pongal in mid-January with traditional festivities and enjoy the pleasant weather that makes outdoor sightseeing comfortable during this peak season.
Explore more of India
Bengaluru is just one of the many cities in India waiting to be explored once you've seen Chennai. Around 290 kilometres away to the west, its best attractions include Meenakshi Temple, Museum of Art & Photography (MAP) and Sri Meenakshi Sundareshwara Temple.
Coimbatore is another sought-after destination in India and is around 434 kilometres south-west of Chennai. No trip is complete without visiting Indira Gandhi Wildlife Sanctuary and National Park, Siruvani Falls and Dam and Sri Ranganathar Temple.
