Expanded Air Connectivity
Pune Airport is experiencing a substantial boost in its operational capacity with the Indian Air Force approving fifteen additional flight slots, escalating
its total from 220 to 235. This crucial expansion is scheduled to take effect in May, facilitating the launch of several new flight paths. The impetus for this increase came from a request by Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, aiming to bolster tourism, facilitate trade, and strengthen regional connections. These new daytime slots are anticipated to make travel more convenient and efficient for a growing number of passengers, marking a significant step forward in Pune's aviation landscape.
Tirupati Via Solapur
A noteworthy addition to Pune's flight network is a multi-leg service connecting Pune to Tirupati, with an intermediate stop in Solapur. This route effectively creates two new sectors: Tirupati-Solapur-Pune and Pune-Solapur-Tirupati. Star Air will be the operator for this service, designated as flight S5 331/332, commencing operations on May 1. The flight is slated to arrive in Pune from Solapur at 3:20 pm and depart back to Solapur at 4:00 pm on all days except Saturdays. On Saturdays, the arrival in Pune will be slightly later at 4:10 pm, with a departure at 4:40 pm. Specific timings for the Solapur-Tirupati segment are yet to be disclosed, but the overall route promises improved access to the pilgrimage city for travelers from Pune and Solapur.
Direct to Mangaluru
Passengers seeking to travel between Pune and Mangaluru will soon have a direct option. FLY 91 is set to introduce flight IC 1609/1610, connecting these two cities starting May 1. The service will operate daily, ensuring consistent connectivity. The flight from Mangaluru is scheduled to arrive in Pune at 6:40 pm, and its return journey to Mangaluru will depart from Pune at 7:05 pm. This daily flight is expected to significantly ease travel for business and leisure purposes between the coastal city of Mangaluru and Pune, fostering stronger ties between the two regions.
Gateway to Bagdogra
Air India will commence operations on flight AI 4171/4172 between Pune and Bagdogra, a crucial gateway to the Northeast, starting May 1. This route is particularly significant as Bagdogra serves as a vital entry point to the Darjeeling district and the wider Northeast region of India. The inbound flight from Bagdogra is scheduled to land in Pune at 12:25 pm, with the return flight to Bagdogra departing Pune at 1:15 pm. This service will run throughout the week, from Monday to Sunday, offering much-needed direct connectivity that will simplify travel for those visiting or transiting through this scenic region.
Chennai via Pune
SpiceJet is launching a new route that will connect Goa and Chennai, with Pune serving as an intermediate stop. The flight, designated as SG 1080/1080, will begin operating from May 1 and will run daily from Monday to Sunday. The service will arrive in Pune from Goa at 8:00 pm and then depart for Chennai at 9:00 pm. This new flight path offers a convenient option for travelers looking to transit between these popular cities via Pune, potentially reducing travel times and increasing travel flexibility for passengers across these three destinations.
Varanasi Connection
Akasa Air is introducing a new service linking Pune with Varanasi, a city rich in culture and spirituality. Operating under flight number QP 1313/1314, this route will be active from May 1 and will run daily, Monday through Sunday. The flight from Varanasi is expected to arrive in Pune at 1:50 pm, with its return journey departing from Pune at 2:35 pm. This direct connection is set to enhance travel convenience for pilgrims, tourists, and business travelers between these two significant cities, fostering greater cultural and economic exchange.
Bengaluru Link
Air India Express is set to enhance connectivity between Pune and Bengaluru with flight IX 1971/2718, commencing operations on May 1. This service will operate six days a week, excluding Saturdays. Flight IX 1971 departs from Bengaluru at 12:45 pm and is scheduled to arrive in Pune by 2:15 pm. The return flight, IX 2718, will depart from Pune at 2:55 pm, reaching Bengaluru at 4:40 pm. This addition provides a reliable option for the frequent travelers between these two major IT and business hubs.
Patna Service
IndiGo is launching a new route connecting Patna and Pune, designated as flight 6E 2183/2184, with services starting on May 2. This new flight will operate three times a week, specifically on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, offering a convenient schedule for travelers. 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 from Pune at 6:40 pm, reaching Patna at 9:00 pm. This service aims to improve connectivity between the capital of Bihar and Pune, catering to both business and personal travel needs.
UDAN Routes Continue
In addition to these new routes, Pune Airport continues to facilitate travel to four important regional destinations under the Government of India’s Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik (UDAN) scheme. These UDAN routes connect Pune to Nanded, Kishangarh, Sindhudurg, and Jalgaon. These flights are crucial for improving last-mile connectivity and promoting balanced regional development across the country. The expansion of slot capacity, coupled with the continuation of these vital regional services, underscores the airport's commitment to enhancing passenger convenience and supporting economic growth throughout the region.
