Expanded Air Connectivity Arrives
Pune Airport is buzzing with activity as it gears up for a significant expansion of its flight operations, effective May 1st. The Indian Air Force has
granted approval for an additional 15 flight slots, raising the airport's total capacity from 220 to 235. This crucial development, championed by Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, is poised to introduce several new and vital air routes. These enhancements are expected to foster greater tourism, invigorate trade relationships, and strengthen regional integration across India, making travel more accessible and efficient for a wider range of passengers. The introduction of these new daytime slots underscores a commitment to improving passenger convenience and supporting the economic growth of the region.
Pilgrimage & Business Hub
A notable addition to Pune's air network is a multi-leg route designed to connect Pune with Tirupati, a significant pilgrimage site, via Solapur. This new service will operate as a two-sector route: Tirupati-Solapur-Pune and Pune-Solapur-Tirupati. Star Air is scheduled to operate this route, with flight S5 331/332 commencing on May 1st. Flights on the Solapur-Pune segment will arrive in Pune around 3:20 pm and depart back to Solapur at 4:00 pm on most days, with a slightly adjusted schedule on Saturdays. This strategic link via Solapur will offer a convenient option for travelers heading to Tirupati and for those in the Solapur region looking to connect with Pune, thereby facilitating both religious travel and business opportunities.
Coastal City Connection
Travelers looking to explore the coastal beauty of Mangaluru will find it easier than ever with a new direct flight service. FLY 91 is set to launch flight IC 1609/1610, establishing a direct link between Mangaluru and Pune, starting from May 1st. This new service promises daily connectivity, operating all seven days of the week. The flight from Mangaluru is scheduled to land in Pune at 6:40 pm, with the return flight departing Pune for Mangaluru shortly after at 7:05 pm. This regular service will greatly benefit business travelers and tourists alike, fostering stronger economic and cultural ties between these two important cities.
Gateway to the Northeast
The addition of Bagdogra in West Bengal to Pune's flight map is a significant strategic move. Air India will operate flight AI 4171/4172, providing direct connectivity to this crucial gateway city. Bagdogra, situated in the Darjeeling district, serves as a vital entry point to the picturesque northeastern region of India. The inbound flight from Bagdogra is expected to arrive in Pune by 12:25 pm, with the return journey departing Pune at 1:15 pm. This service, running from Monday to Sunday, will substantially ease travel for those wishing to explore the unique landscapes and culture of the Northeast, streamlining journeys for both leisure and business.
Southern Corridor Expansion
Pune's air connectivity is further bolstered with a new route connecting Goa and Chennai, with Pune serving as an intermediate stop. SpiceJet will introduce flight SG 1080/1080 on this route, effective May 1st. The flight will arrive in Pune from Goa at approximately 8:00 pm and then depart for Chennai at 9:00 pm. Operating daily from Monday to Sunday, this service offers a convenient option for passengers traveling between these popular destinations, as well as for those looking to connect to or from Pune. This expansion strengthens the southern air corridor and enhances travel options for a wide range of passengers.
Spiritual and Cultural Links
Adding to the growing list of new destinations, Akasa Air will commence operations between Varanasi and Pune. Flight QP 1313/1314 will operate daily, Monday through Sunday, starting May 1st. The flight from Varanasi is slated to arrive in Pune by 1:50 pm, with the return flight departing Pune at 2:35 pm. This new connection is particularly significant for those wishing to visit the ancient city of Varanasi, a major spiritual and cultural hub. The regular service will facilitate easier access for tourists, pilgrims, and business travelers alike, fostering greater cultural exchange and economic activity.
Bengaluru Connectivity Boost
Air India Express is enhancing its services between Pune and Bengaluru, a major IT and business center. The airline will operate flight IX 1971/2718, with services running six days a week, excluding Saturdays, from May 1st. The flight from Bengaluru is scheduled to arrive in Pune at 2:15 pm, and the return flight from Pune will depart at 2:55 pm, reaching Bengaluru at 4:40 pm. This increased frequency and reliability of service between these two critical economic hubs will greatly benefit the large number of professionals and businesses operating between the two cities.
Eastern Connections Strengthened
IndiGo is set to launch a new route connecting Patna, the capital of Bihar, with Pune. Flight 6E 2183/2184 will operate three times a week, specifically on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, commencing May 2nd. The flight from Patna is expected to arrive in Pune at 6:05 pm, and the return flight will depart Pune at 6:40 pm, arriving back in Patna at 9:00 pm. This new service will significantly improve connectivity for residents of Patna and surrounding areas, providing a crucial link to Pune for business, education, and personal travel needs.
Continued Regional Support
Beyond these new trunk routes, Pune Airport remains committed to fostering regional development through the UDAN scheme. Currently, four vital regional destinations—Nanded, Kishangarh, Sindhudurg, and Jalgaon—are served under the 'Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik' (RCS-UDAN) initiative. These routes are essential for last-mile connectivity, bridging smaller towns and cities with major hubs. The airport director emphasized that these RCS routes are instrumental in promoting balanced regional growth and ensuring that air travel is accessible to a wider segment of the population, thereby supporting local economies and improving overall accessibility.
