Leopard Sighted Twice at Pune Airport, Forest Department Steps Up Vigilance
Pune, November 23, 2025: A leopard sighted twice at Pune airport in a single day has led to tighter monitoring and precautionary measures across the airfield. Officials confirmed that the animal was spotted earlier this week within operational areas of the airport, raising safety concerns for both aviation activities and nearby residents.
According to the airport authorities, the first sighting occurred on November 19 around 5.30 am behind Bay No. 9, followed by another sighting near Taxi Link K4 around 7.40 pm the same day. Both instances were reported to the forest department immediately.
The leopard sighted twice at Pune airport has been under observation for nearly two weeks. Forest officials said the animal has been roaming within Lohegaon village limits. To track and safely capture the animal, teams have set up a trap cage and deployed multiple camera traps.
Officials have also advised the airport and Air Force authorities to put stricter preventive measures in place, particularly to stop the leopard from entering sensitive aviation zones. Since the area handles critical aircraft operations, authorities emphasized that the suggested measures need to be executed without delay.
Forest teams continue to monitor the location closely to prevent any conflict situation and ensure public safety.
Not the First Sighting This Year
This is not the first time wildlife has entered the airport premises. The leopard sighted twice at Pune airport this week follows several sightings earlier this year.
Key past incidents include:
- A full-grown male leopard spotted near the runway on April 28
- Additional sightings reported by airport staff, IAF personnel, and Lohegaon residents
- Multiple entry points such as stormwater drains being sealed earlier this year
- Another confirmed sighting in mid-August
Officials believe the animal’s territory spans Lohegaon and nearby villages, suggesting regular movement across the region rather than isolated incidents.
The leopard sighted twice at Pune airport adds to a pattern of repeated appearances, reinforcing the need for long-term solutions rather than temporary measures.
