Expanded Connectivity Unveiled
Pune Airport is experiencing a significant boost in its operational capacity with the approval of an additional 15 flight slots by the Indian Air Force.
This enhancement raises the airport's total slot availability from 220 to 235. The primary objective behind this expansion is to facilitate the introduction of several new flight routes, designed to improve connectivity and serve a wider range of passenger needs. These new daytime slots are anticipated to play a crucial role in fostering tourism, stimulating trade activities, and strengthening regional ties across various parts of the country. The initiative, driven by a request from Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, is set to revolutionize air travel accessibility from Pune.
Tirupati Via Solapur Route
A notable new addition to the flight network is a multi-leg service connecting Pune and Tirupati, with a stopover in Solapur. This route will operate in two segments: Tirupati-Solapur-Pune and Pune-Solapur-Tirupati. Star Air will be the carrier for this new service, commencing operations on May 1st. Flight S5 331/332 is scheduled to arrive in Pune from Solapur at 3:20 pm and depart back to Solapur at 4:00 pm, operating six days a week, excluding Saturdays. On Saturdays, the service will arrive in Pune slightly later at 4:10 pm and depart at 4:40 pm. While the specific timings for the Solapur-Tirupati leg are yet to be released, this development offers a crucial air link for pilgrims and travelers visiting these cities.
Mangaluru Direct Flight
For travelers heading towards the coastal city of Mangaluru, FLY 91 will introduce a direct flight service starting May 1st. Flight IC 1609/1610 will connect Pune and Mangaluru, with the flight arriving in Pune from Mangaluru at 6:40 pm and departing back to Mangaluru at 7:05 pm. This service is planned to operate daily, seven days a week, offering consistent connectivity for business and leisure travelers alike. The introduction of this route is expected to significantly ease travel between these two important cities, promoting economic and cultural exchange.
Bagdogra Gateway to Northeast
Air India will commence operations on the Bagdogra (IXB) and Pune route, identified by flight number AI 4171/4172, effective May 1st. The inbound flight from Bagdogra is scheduled to arrive in Pune at 12:25 pm, with the return flight departing from Pune at 1:15 pm. This service will be available from Monday to Sunday. Bagdogra is strategically vital as it serves as a primary gateway to the northeastern states of India. Direct air connectivity from Pune to Bagdogra will immensely facilitate travel for individuals visiting the picturesque Darjeeling district and other northeastern regions, simplifying access and promoting tourism.
SpiceJet's Goa-Chennai Link
Enhancing travel between the popular tourist destination of Goa and the southern metropolis of Chennai, SpiceJet will operate flight SG 1080/1080, with Pune serving as an intermediate stop. This service, effective May 1st, will see the flight arrive in Pune from Goa at 8:00 pm and then depart for Chennai at 9:00 pm. Operating from Monday to Sunday, this route offers a convenient option for passengers wishing to travel between these key cities, utilizing Pune as a transit hub. The integration of Pune into this established route underscores its growing importance as a connectivity node.
Akasa Air to Varanasi
Akasa Air is set to launch its services between Pune and Varanasi (VNS) with flight QP 1313/1314, commencing on May 1st. The flight is expected to arrive in Pune from Varanasi at 1:50 pm and depart back to Varanasi at 2:35 pm. This service will operate throughout the week, from Monday to Sunday, providing regular access to the ancient city of Varanasi. This new route caters to both religious tourism and business travel, further strengthening the air network from Pune to important cultural and historical centers in India.
Bengaluru Connectivity Boost
Air India Express will enhance its services connecting Pune and Bengaluru with flight IX 1971/2718, starting from May 1st. This service will operate six days a week, excluding Saturdays. According to the airline's booking information, flight IX 1971 departs from Bengaluru at 12:45 pm, arriving in Pune at 2:15 pm. The return flight, IX 2718, departs Pune at 2:55 pm and reaches Bengaluru at 4:40 pm. This increased frequency and reliability between Pune and Bengaluru, a major IT and business hub, will benefit professionals and commuters.
IndiGo's Patna Service
IndiGo is introducing flight 6E 2183/2184 to connect Pune and Patna, with operations scheduled to begin on May 2nd. This service will operate three times a week, specifically on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. Flight 6E 2183 is set to depart from Patna at 3:40 pm, arriving in Pune at 6:05 pm. The return flight, 6E 2184, will depart Pune at 6:40 pm and arrive in Patna at 9:00 pm. This new connection offers a much-needed air link for the people of Bihar and the surrounding regions, facilitating easier travel and boosting regional economic activity.
