Welcome to Pune International Airport, the gateway to one of India’s most vibrant cities, Pune.
Pune International Airport, Maharashtra, stands tall as a beacon of progress in West Central India, boasting a remarkable blend of tradition and modernity.
As the second-largest city in the region, Pune is a bustling metropolis renowned for its rapid growth across various sectors like IT, healthcare, education, and cultural events.
Moreover, nestled approximately 11 kilometers northeast of Pune’s historical centre lies Pune International Airport, also known as Pune Lohegaon Airport.
However, managed by the Airports Authority of India, this bustling aviation hub ranks as the tenth busiest airport in the nation.
Overview
Pune International Airport boasts a 2,540-meter-long runway, positioned at 10/28 orientation. Previously, it was a secondary runway, but now it functions as a taxiway for the Indian Air Force (IAF).
To support civil operations, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) constructed a 2200m x 23m parallel taxiway on the southern side of runway 10/28.
However, the airfield has night landing and navigational facilities, including DVOR/DME and an NDB.
However, as the IAF operates Pune’s air traffic control, tensions often arise between the AAI and the IAF regarding flight schedules and night landings.
Currently, a tentative agreement exists allowing civilian flights to conduct night landings, though this interim solution is only sustainable in the short term.
History
In December 2005, Air India initiated Pune International Airport’s first international flight route to Dubai, followed by Indian Airlines’ service to Singapore the next day.
Passenger traffic at the airport saw significant growth over the years. From about 165 passengers per day in 2004–05, numbers surged to 4,309 passengers per day by 2006–07 and over 2.8 million passengers annually by 2010–2011.
Lufthansa’s inaugural flight from Frankfurt in July 2008 marked Pune’s direct connection to Europe, facilitated by PrivatAir.
Additionally, this flight primarily catered to the city’s automotive, biotechnology, and corporate sectors.
Due to the airport’s short runway, PrivatAir utilized a long-range Airbus A319 with only business-class seats, necessitating a reduced seating capacity to accommodate sufficient fuel for the extended flight duration.
Cargo Terminal
A. Amplifying International Reach
Pune International Airport is poised to undergo a transformative phase with the proposed establishment of an international cargo facility.
This ambitious venture aims to facilitate the seamless operation of foreign cargo operators within the airport premises.
Further, fesignated as a customs airport since January 17, 1997, with a primary focus on exporting perishable agricultural commodities, this cargo terminal promises to fortify Pune’s position as a hub for global trade.
Furthermore, this development is anticipated to allure foreign airlines, fostering enhanced connectivity and trade relationships, and there is another way to explore the best place for camping near Pune.
B. Strategic Location
Spanning an expansive 600 sq. m, the cargo terminal is strategically positioned adjacent to the newly constructed second terminal at New Pune International Airport.
Whether, this proximity streamlines logistics and augments the airport’s operational efficiency.
Airport Expansion
A. Expanding Horizons
The ongoing expansion endeavours at Pune Airport signify a monumental leap towards bolstering its infrastructure and service capabilities.
The construction of a second terminal on the eastern periphery of the existing one is a testament to Pune’s burgeoning significance as a key aviation hub.
B. Unveiling Future Ready Facilities
However, projected to be twice the size of the current terminal, this avant-garde structure will house five aerobridges, ensuring smoother boarding processes for passengers.
However, equipped with cutting-edge technologies, duty-free outlets, and vibrant food courts, the new terminal promises an enriched travel experience.
C. Navigating Through Challenges
Initially slated for completion by the end of 2020, the project encountered setbacks due to the unprecedented disruptions caused by the COVID-19 pandemic.
However, despite the formidable challenges of lockdowns and labour shortages, construction efforts resumed in September 2021.
Steadfast determination propelled the project forward, with the terminal reaching an impressive 75% completion milestone by November 2022.
D. A Milestone Achieved
The culmination of rigorous efforts culminated in the inauguration of the Pune International Airport new terminal on March 10, 2024, marking a significant stride towards enhancing Pune’s aviation landscape.
As the final touches are being meticulously applied, the new terminal awaits its grand unveiling to the general public, promising a seamless blend of modernity and functionality at Pune International Airport.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the transformation of Pune Airport into a modern aviation marvel stands as a testament to Pune’s unwavering commitment to progress.
With the inauguration of the expansive second terminal, equipped with state-of-the-art amenities and technologies, Pune Airport is set to redefine the travel experience for millions.
Moreover, establishing an international cargo terminal further solidifies Pune’s position as a global trade hub, fostering enhanced connectivity and economic opportunities.
As the city soars to new heights, Pune International Airport remains at the forefront, seamlessly connecting Pune with the world.
FAQ
Q: Does Pune have two airports?
A: Yes, Pune has an international airport known as Pune International Airport, or PNQ, on the eastern side of Lohegaon Air Force Station. Also known as Pune Lohegaon Airport, it ranks as the tenth busiest airport in India.
Q: Do international flights fly from Pune?
A: Absolutely! Pune International Airport serves domestic & international flights, ensuring connectivity to various destinations worldwide.
Q: What happened to Pune International Airport?
A: The authorities planned to shift the airport to a new location at Pune International Airport Purandar, but faced logistical challenges. Meanwhile, efforts to expand the existing Pune airport aim to manage the increasing flight operations and passenger traffic.
Q: Who is the owner of Pune airport?
A: However, the AAI owns and operates Pune International Airport, ensuring reliable and efficient services for passengers.
