Expanding Horizons
Pune Airport is poised for a substantial boost in its flight operations this May, thanks to the Indian Air Force's approval of 15 additional flight slots.
This brings the airport's total operational capacity from 220 to 235 slots. This expansion is a direct result of a request made by Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, to enhance air connectivity. Airport Director Santosh Dhoke highlighted that these new daytime slots will not only introduce novel routes but also act as a catalyst for growth in tourism, trade, and the overall integration of the region. This strategic increase in capacity is anticipated to significantly improve travel convenience and foster economic development across various sectors.
Tirupati via Solapur
A notable addition to Pune's flight network is a new multi-leg route designed to connect Pune with Tirupati, with an intermediate stop in Solapur. This innovative service establishes two distinct flight paths: Tirupati-Solapur-Pune and Pune-Solapur-Tirupati. Star Air is slated to operate this route, with flight number S5 331/332 commencing on May 1st. The Pune-Solapur-Tirupati segment will see flights arriving in Pune at 3:20 pm and departing back to Solapur at 4:00 pm on most days, operating six times a week except for Saturdays. The Saturday schedule will feature a slightly later arrival in Pune at 4:10 pm and a departure at 4:40 pm. Specific timings for the Solapur-Tirupati leg are still pending announcement, but the route promises enhanced accessibility to this popular pilgrimage destination.
New Gateway: Mangaluru
Connectivity to the coastal city of Mangaluru is also set to improve dramatically with the introduction of a new flight service. FLY 91 will commence operations on flight IC 1609/1610, linking Pune and Mangaluru starting May 1st. This flight is scheduled to arrive in Pune from Mangaluru at 6:40 pm and will depart from Pune back to Mangaluru at 7:05 pm. The service is designed to be highly convenient for travelers, operating daily throughout the week. This direct connection is expected to foster stronger business ties and encourage tourism between the two important cities, making travel smoother and more efficient for passengers.
Gateway to the Northeast: Bagdogra
For those looking to explore the scenic beauty of West Bengal's Darjeeling district, Pune will now offer direct air access to Bagdogra. Air India will operate flight AI 4171/4172 on this route, commencing on May 1st. The inbound flight is scheduled to arrive in Pune at 12:25 pm, with the return departure to Bagdogra set for 1:15 pm. This service will operate consistently from Monday through Sunday, providing regular connectivity. Airport Director Santosh Dhoke emphasized the strategic significance of Bagdogra, noting its role as a crucial gateway to the northeastern states. This direct flight is anticipated to considerably simplify travel for individuals visiting or transiting through this vital region.
Connecting Goa and Chennai
In a move that enhances travel options across Western and Southern India, a new route via Pune will connect Goa and Chennai. SpiceJet will introduce flight SG 1080/1080, effective May 1st, which will serve Pune as an intermediate point. The flight will arrive in Pune from Goa at 8:00 pm and then depart for Chennai at 9:00 pm. This service will be available every day of the week, offering a consistent travel option. This new route is expected to facilitate smoother transit for passengers traveling between these popular tourist and business destinations, increasing convenience and reducing travel time.
Varanasi Direct Link
Pilgrims and travelers interested in visiting the ancient city of Varanasi will find their journey more accessible with a new direct flight. Akasa Air is launching flight QP 1313/1314 between Varanasi and Pune, with operations beginning on May 1st. The flight from Varanasi is scheduled to arrive in Pune at 1:50 pm, and the return flight will depart from Pune at 2:35 pm. This service will run seven days a week, ensuring daily connectivity. The establishment of this direct route simplifies travel to and from one of India's most culturally significant cities, making it easier for both tourists and residents to connect.
Bengaluru Connectivity Boost
Air connectivity between Pune and the IT hub of Bengaluru is set to receive a boost with a new service from Air India Express. Flight IX 1971/2718 will operate between these two major cities, commencing its services on May 1st. The flight departing from Bengaluru is scheduled to arrive in Pune at 2:15 pm, with the return flight from Pune departing at 2:55 pm and arriving in Bengaluru at 4:40 pm. This service will operate six days a week, with a pause on Saturdays. This increased frequency and improved scheduling will benefit business travelers and those commuting between these two rapidly growing urban centers.
Patna Service Inauguration
Residents of and travelers to Patna, the capital of Bihar, will soon have more convenient air access to Pune. IndiGo is launching flight 6E 2183/2184 connecting these two cities, with services beginning on May 2nd. This route will operate three times a week: on Tuesdays, Thursdays, and Saturdays. The flight from Patna is expected to arrive in Pune at 6:05 pm, while the return flight from Pune to Patna will depart at 6:40 pm and arrive at 9:00 pm. This new service aims to enhance connectivity for passengers traveling between Eastern and Western India, supporting both personal and commercial travel needs.
Continuing UDAN Routes
Beyond these new and expanded routes, Pune Airport continues its commitment to regional connectivity through the Government of India’s UDAN (Ude Desh ka Aam Nagrik) scheme. Four vital regional destinations – Nanded, Kishangarh, Sindhudurg, and Jalgaon – remain well-connected under this initiative. Airport Director Santosh Dhoke emphasized that these UDAN routes are crucial for improving last-mile connectivity and fostering balanced regional development. The overall increase in slot capacity and the introduction of new routes are designed to enhance passenger convenience and support the economic expansion of the region through improved air travel accessibility.
