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The Pune International Airport is preparing for a major upgrade, with all flight operations moving to the newly built integrated terminal building (NITB) from 2 am on March 5, 2025. This move aims to provide passengers with better convenience and a world-class travel experience.
A bigger and better terminal
The new terminal is spread over 52,000 square meters and is equipped with the latest facilities. It has 10 aerobridges to make boarding and exiting the plane easier for travelers. The terminal has the capacity to handle up to 9 million passengers every year, ensuring smooth operations for both domestic and international travelers.
To make check-in and baggage handling more efficient, the terminal features 34 check-in counters, 25 self-check-in kiosks, and five baggage carousels. Two of these carousels are specially designed for international arrivals. These improvements will help passengers move through the airport more quickly and comfortably.
Complete shift from old terminal
Pune Airport Director Santosh Dhoke announced that, at present, only a few flights are still operating from the old terminal. However, by March 5, all flights will shift to the new terminal. After this, the old terminal will be demolished and redeveloped.
Dhoke also highlighted the many modern features of the new terminal. Passengers will have access to spacious lounges, a variety of food outlets, retail stores, and more seating areas. The terminal also reflects Maharashtra's cultural heritage in its design. It is built with eco-friendly materials and has received a four-star GRIHA rating for being a green building.
Minister praises the new development
Murlidhar Mohol, the Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation, said that the new terminal is a big step forward for Pune's airport. He stated that this upgrade will give passengers a world-class experience and is part of Pune's growth as an important economic and cultural center. The government is committed to improving infrastructure for travelers.
Passengers raise concerns about luggage delays
Even though the new terminal is expected to improve passenger experience, some travelers have raised concerns about current services at Pune Airport. A passenger named Samyak shared his frustration about long wait times for luggage. He mentioned that the wait at the luggage belt sometimes takes as long as his flight from Bhopal to Pune. He also pointed out the lack of trolleys as an issue.
Addressing these complaints, Dhoke admitted that there have been some problems during this transition phase. He assured that the airport is working on solutions and that luggage wait times will be reduced to just eight to 10 minutes once all airlines have fully shifted to the NITB.
Passengers are advised to check their airline notifications and arrive early at the airport to get familiar with the new terminal. This will help them have a smooth and hassle-free travel experience during this transition period.
