Pune: In a strategic move aimed at bolstering international aviation, Chandrakant Patil, the Minister of Higher and Technical Education, has called for a comprehensive survey to extend the runway at Pune Airport. This exciting development was announced during a pivotal review meeting held at the airport, where key officials discussed the future of air travel in Pune and the potential for increased international connectivity.
The meeting saw the presence of several influential figures, including Divisional Commissioner Saurabh Rao, Police Commissioner Retesh Kumaarr, District Collector Dr Rajesh Deshmukh, Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA) Commissioner Rahul Mahiwal, and Pune Municipal Corporation Additional Commissioner Vikas Dhakne. Santosh Dhoke, the Pune Airport Director, played a pivotal role in the discussions, providing valuable insights into the airport’s current operations and future aspirations.
Minister Patil emphasized the importance of the proposed runway extension in facilitating the growth of international air travel from Pune. He revealed that the new terminal, equipped with ten parking bays and aerobridges, is expected to accommodate up to 218 flights, effectively addressing the needs of domestic air travel. However, recognizing the untapped potential of international routes, Minister Patil stressed the need for further exploration in this domain, highlighting the significance of conducting comprehensive studies.
Furthermore, Minister Patil disclosed plans to convene a meeting with the Maharashtra Chief Minister and Deputy Chief Minister to expedite the progress on the Purandar Airport project. This initiative is poised to play a pivotal role in enhancing Pune’s aviation infrastructure and capabilities. Additionally, he emphasized the importance of accelerating road infrastructure developments that would complement the new terminal’s functionality.
Pune Airport Director Dhoke presented compelling data on passenger traffic at Pune Airport, shedding light on the airport’s current and potential impact on the region. Currently, the airport serves around 30,000 passengers daily, including approximately 540 international travelers. In the fiscal year 2022-23 alone, Pune Airport efficiently managed 8 million passengers through 59,451 flights. These numbers are expected to experience exponential growth once the new terminal, spanning an impressive 51,595 square feet and equipped with modern amenities, becomes operational.
The call for a survey to extend Pune Airport’s runway signifies a crucial step forward in realizing the airport’s ambitious expansion plans. With the vision of enhancing international connectivity and accommodating the burgeoning demand for air travel, this development holds immense promise for Pune’s aviation landscape and its future as a regional aviation hub.
