Expanded Air Connectivity Unveiled
Pune Airport is set to significantly enhance its flight offerings this May with the approval of fifteen additional flight slots by the Indian Air Force.
This brings the airport's total capacity to 235 slots, a notable increase from its previous 220. The primary objective behind this expansion, facilitated by a request from Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, is to introduce new routes and bolster tourism, trade, and inter-regional connections. These newly allocated daytime slots are poised to make travel more accessible and efficient for a wider range of passengers, reflecting a strategic move to improve the airport's operational capabilities and service offerings to the public. The airport director, Santosh Dhoke, emphasized that these changes are crucial for fostering economic growth and improving passenger convenience across the region.
New Route: Tirupati via Solapur
A significant addition to Pune's flight network is a new multi-leg route connecting Pune to Tirupati, with a stopover in Solapur. This route effectively creates two distinct travel sectors: Tirupati-Solapur-Pune and its reverse, Pune-Solapur-Tirupati. Star Air is slated to operate this service, identified as flight S5 331/332, commencing from May 1st. Flights destined for Pune from Solapur are scheduled to arrive at 3:20 pm, with the return flight to Solapur departing at 4:00 pm, operating six days a week, excluding 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 of this route are still pending announcement, but the introduction of this link is expected to greatly benefit pilgrims and business travelers alike.
Direct Flight to Mangaluru
Travelers looking to connect with the coastal city of Mangaluru will soon have a direct option as FLY 91 introduces flight IC 1609/1610. This new service, effective from May 1st, will operate daily, seven days a week, offering consistent connectivity. The flight arriving from Mangaluru is expected to land in Pune at 6:40 pm, with the return flight to Mangaluru departing from Pune shortly after, at 7:05 pm. This consistent schedule is designed to facilitate easier travel for both business and leisure purposes, strengthening the air bridge between these two important cities and providing a reliable option for frequent travelers.
Gateway to the Northeast: Bagdogra
Air India will commence operations on flight AI 4171/4172, establishing a direct link between Pune and Bagdogra, effective May 1st. This new route is particularly significant as Bagdogra serves as a crucial gateway to the Northeast region of India, including Darjeeling. The inbound flight from Bagdogra is scheduled to arrive in Pune at 12:25 pm, with the departure to Bagdogra set for 1:15 pm. This service will operate throughout the week, from Monday to Sunday, providing convenient access to a region rich in natural beauty and cultural heritage. Airport officials have highlighted the strategic importance of this route for easing travel to the Northeast, potentially boosting tourism and economic activity.
Connecting Goa and Chennai
A new route via Pune will now connect Goa and Chennai, operated by SpiceJet under flight SG 1080/1080, beginning May 1st. This service will run seven days a week, offering a convenient transit point for travelers between these popular destinations. The flight will arrive in Pune from Goa at 8:00 pm and then depart for Chennai at 9:00 pm. This addition is expected to streamline travel for individuals commuting between the southern coast and the western coast, as well as facilitating business and leisure trips, enhancing the overall connectivity network accessible through Pune Airport.
Varanasi Direct Service
Akasa Air is launching a new flight, QP 1313/1314, that will directly connect Pune with the ancient city of Varanasi, starting May 1st. This service is scheduled to operate daily, Monday through Sunday, ensuring consistent travel options. The flight from Varanasi is anticipated to arrive in Pune at 1:50 pm, with the return journey to Varanasi departing from Pune at 2:35 pm. This direct link is likely to be a boon for religious tourists, cultural explorers, and business travelers seeking efficient transit between these two historically significant cities.
Bengaluru Link Enhanced
Air India Express is bolstering connectivity between Pune and Bengaluru with flight IX 1971/2718, effective May 1st. This service will operate six days a week, with a break on Saturdays. The flight departing Bengaluru is scheduled to arrive in Pune at 2:15 pm, and the return flight from Pune to Bengaluru will depart at 2:55 pm, arriving back at 4:40 pm. This route is a vital artery for business and VFR (Visiting Friends and Relatives) traffic, and its increased frequency and reliable timing contribute to smoother travel experiences between these two major southern cities.
Patna Connectivity Boosted
IndiGo is introducing a new service, flight 6E 2183/2184, connecting Pune with Patna, commencing on May 2nd. This route will operate three times a week, specifically on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays, offering strategic connections. The flight from Patna is expected to arrive in Pune at 6:05 pm, and the return flight from Pune will depart at 6:40 pm, reaching Patna at 9:00 pm. This service addresses a growing demand for connectivity between these important urban centers, facilitating both personal and professional travel.
