Taking a helicopter between Mumbai and Pune is one of the fastest ways to travel between the two cities, which covers roughly 150 km in a short interval of time. But recent changes to the flight paths around the newly operational Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIAL) have slightly extended travel time.
“Choppers from Pune land at the Juhu airport in Mumbai, and the ride takes around 45 minutes. Choppers generally fly in one straight line and used to cross the Navi Mumbai International Airport (NMIA) airspace earlier,” Ishwarchandra Gulgule, managing director of Kaigu Aviation Private Limited, said as quoted by Times of India (TOI).
Helicopter flights typically follow visual flight rules (VFR) to safely navigate around major airports and obstacles.
However, helicopters are now restricted from flying straight across NMIAL airspace. These changes have been implemented to ensure safe separation between helicopters and fixed-wing aircraft operating at the airport.
If you’re planning a ride, it’s good to know the new routes, safety measures and how to book your flight.
A Look At New Route Changes
From December 22, 2025, helicopter flights follow coastal and urban paths to bypass Navi Mumbai Airport.
Key points along the route include Sanpada Railway Shed, Mankhurd Railway Station and Shivaji Park.
The rerouted paths are designed according to guidelines from the Airport Authority of India (AAI) to enhance operational safety.
Journey Duration
Helicopters like the Airbus H125 cover the roughly 150 km distance in 30-45 minutes.
The time is far quicker than travelling by road between Mumbai and Pune.
Passengers can expect slightly longer travel times compared to previous routes due to the adjustments around NMIAL.
Helipad Locations
In Mumbai, helipads at Juhu Airport, Mahalaxmi Racecourse and Jawahar are used for departures and arrivals.
In Pune, helicopters can land at Pune Airport or at YOO Villas in Kharadi.
Route Accuracy Standards
Helicopters maintain an altitude of 700 feet above ground level (AGL) within 20 nautical miles of Mumbai airports.
Pilots rely on visual landmarks or VOR-DME arcs to maintain precise routes.
Deviations from these paths are coordinated to avoid any airport airspace conflicts.
Key Visual Checkpoints
North Mumbai overflights use Sanpada Railway Shed and Mankhurd Railway Station as reference points.
Southern Mumbai includes landmarks like Shivaji Park, while coastal routes allow pilots to steer clear of NMIAL.
What Operational Notes Should Be Considered?
Operators like Flyyo India and BLADE use Airbus H125 helicopters for Mumbai–Pune shuttles.
Flights from Juhu or Mahalaxmi helipads to Pune Airport usually take around 30 minutes.
Pilots follow real-time ATC instructions on frequencies like Mumbai APP 127.9 to ensure safety.
The Impact Of New Routes
Travel time has slightly increased to 35-45 minutes due to the revised paths.
Outbound flights from Mumbai avoid NMIAL airspace by following the coastal edges before heading inland past Shivaji Park toward Pune.
The new paths may slightly increase flight costs but improve safety for all operations.
Comparison To Previous Routes
Older routes relied on sea paths and VOR radials, which risked conflicts with NMIAL.
The updated paths prioritise land-based visuals and airport avoidance.
Helicopters now deviate eastward and southeast while remaining coordinated with ATC via Mumbai APP (127.9 MHz).
Visibility And Noise Impact
Helicopters fly low at 700 feet AGL (above ground level), which makes them clearly visible from the ground in dense urban areas.
Noise levels during passes can reach 100–120 dB, which exceeds residential limits of 55dB. This can disturb sleep, work or classes.
Residents may notice rotors and fuselages during low-level flights.
How To Book A Helicopter Flight?
Flights can be booked through Flyyo India or BLADE via their apps or websites.
Booking online allows passengers to select the date, time and type of flight, then receive an e-ticket via email or WhatsApp.
What Are The Requirements And Costs?
Passengers must carry a valid ID (Aadhaar or Passport), and children above 2 years require a separate seat.
Arrive at the helipad 45 minutes before departure with a baggage limit of 10 kg.
Flights are weather-dependent, and cancellations are refundable minus fees.
Prices range from Rs 3,200 to 19,900 per seat, and travellers should check DGCA advisories for route changes.
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