Pune airport runway expansion, old terminal demolition, Navi Mumbai airport by march 2025, Purandar airport by 2029; Mohol shares important updates
Pune Loksabha MP and Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation, Murlidhar Mohol, while speaking at a recent CREDAI Pune Metro event, shared important information regarding the aviation infrastructure upgrades that are being executed.
Important announcements included updates on Pune Airport, Purandar Airport, and Navi Mumbai Airport, promising enhanced connectivity for Pune residents.
Pune Airport: Expansions and Upgrades
Mohol announced that the old terminal at Pune Airport will soon be demolished as airline operations have largely shifted to the new terminal building, which was inaugurated last year. The remaining flights from the old terminal will transition to the new facility by next month. Following this, the Airports Authority of India (AAI) will begin redevelopment of the old terminal to address growing passenger demand.
The redevelopment plan includes:
- Converting the existing arrival hall into an extended departure hall, connected to the new integrated terminal building (NITB) via a corridor.
- Adding 16 new check-in counters to streamline passenger processing and reduce wait times.
- Introducing advanced security features, including Door Frame Metal Detectors (DFMDs) and X-ray machines, for faster and more secure screenings.
- Expanding retail offerings for a better passenger experience.
The project, occupying 4,000 square meters of additional space, represents a substantial investment of ₹25 crore, according to Pune Airport Director Santosh Dhoke. Once completed, the upgrades will seamlessly connect the old terminal’s systems with the NITB, ensuring operational cohesion and enhanced passenger convenience.
Runway Expansion and International Connectivity
Efforts are on to expand Pune Airport’s runway, which will allow for larger aircraft to land and facilitate international flight operations within a year. The expansion involves acquiring 225 to 250 acres of defense land, a process already in progress. Currently, the airport handles 100 take-offs and 100 landings daily, suggesting the pressing need for such upgrades.
Purandar Airport: A Long-Term Vision
Mohol also shared updates on the upcoming Purandar Airport, which is expected to become operational by 2029. Land acquisition for the project will commence in the coming days, marking the first step towards creating a second airport for Pune, further boosting the region’s connectivity.
Navi Mumbai Airport: A Convenient Option for Pune Residents
The much-anticipated Navi Mumbai Airport is set to start domestic flights in March 2025, with international operations beginning in April 2025. Once the missing link on the Mumbai-Pune Expressway is completed, Pune residents will be able to reach Navi Mumbai Airport in just one hour. With Pune, Purandar, and Navi Mumbai airports soon to be operational, residents will benefit from multiple options for domestic and international travel.
A Bright Future for Pune’s Air Travel
Speaking on these developments, Mohol emphasized the government’s commitment to transforming Pune into a major aviation hub. “These upgrades will not only enhance connectivity but also significantly improve the passenger experience. The upcoming infrastructure will meet the demands of the growing number of travelers from Pune and surrounding areas,” he stated.
These transformative projects underscore Pune’s growing importance as a regional and international aviation center, offering residents and businesses improved travel convenience and economic opportunities.
