Pune: Airport Gets Boost with 15 New Flight Slots, Enhancing Air Connectivity
Pune International Airport has received a significant boost with the allocation of 15 additional flight slots, increasing the total number from 220 to 235. This move, announced by Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol on Saturday, is expected to enhance air connectivity and provide major relief to passengers.
The additional slots were approved by Air Chief Marshal VR Chaudhari after persistent efforts by Minister Mohol, who had been following up with the Indian Air Force (IAF), which controls part of the airport’s operations. The new slots, available between 6 am and 10:29 pm, will allow airlines to expand operations during peak hours, offering travellers greater flexibility and access to more destinations.
With Pune emerging as a key industrial, IT, and education hub, the limited airport capacity had been a longstanding concern. The increased slots will now enable airlines to strengthen direct connections to major cities like Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, and Ahmedabad, with potential additions of new routes.
Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol stated, “While we are committed to accelerating work on the international airport at Purandar, our focus also remains on strengthening the existing Pune airport. Securing these additional slots will significantly improve flight frequency and Pune’s air connectivity.”
The development is expected to benefit both passengers and airlines, paving the way for smoother travel and expanded flight operations in the near future.
