Pune Airport is all set for its biggest winter season yet, with the new schedule kicking in from the last week of October.
For the first time, the airport will see 15 additional flight slots, taking the total
from 220 to around 235. This expansion means more flights on popular routes and the possibility of new destinations being added.
As per Hindustan Times, airport officials expect a sharp rise in passenger numbers as the winter travel rush begins. Airlines are already preparing proposals to claim these new slots, with submissions due by the end of August.
The airport will then send them to the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA) for final approval. Once cleared, airlines can start operating the proposed flights.
Which Routes Will Benefit?
Currently, Pune Airport offers connections to 34 cities across India. With the new slots, airlines plan to increase frequencies on busy routes and introduce services to at least five to seven new cities this season. This will give travellers more choice, especially during peak travel times.
The additional slots will be distributed across the airport’s operational hours of 6:00am to 10:29pm, allowing greater flexibility in scheduling and improving convenience for passengers.
Why Does It Matter for Travellers?
For frequent flyers, this move could be a game-changer. “Right now, getting a convenient flight from Pune during peak hours is a real challenge,” said Rohan Nalawade, a regular business traveller. “These extra slots and new destinations will make bookings easier, reduce prices, and save us the trouble of travelling to Mumbai for flights.”
With more direct options, passengers can look forward to smoother journeys, better timings, and fewer layovers. The expansion is expected to benefit both business and leisure travel, boosting connectivity for Pune and surrounding regions.
