Click it and Unblock the Notifications
The aviation landscape in Pune is set to witness a significant change with the operational launch of a new terminal at Pune Airport, also recognized as PNQ, slated for the first week of May. This development is eagerly awaited by travelers and airline operators alike. Initially, this expansion will exclusively cater to Air India and Air India Express flights, as confirmed by the Pune Airport Authority of India (AAI).
In this initial phase, other airlines will continue their operations from the existing terminal. This arrangement allows Air India and Air India Express to conduct "test flights" aimed at assessing passenger flow and pinpointing any potential operational issues within the new facility. The move follows the recent nod from the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BICAS), which has given the green light for the new terminal's operations, marking a critical milestone in Pune Airport's expansion efforts.
The new terminal is anticipated to significantly enhance the airport's capacity. With an ability to accommodate 12 million passengers annually and process up to 1,400 passengers per hour, the terminal is a leap forward in upgrading the infrastructure and services at Pune Airport. It boasts state-of-the-art features, including five aerobridges and five baggage belts, designed to streamline the passenger experience.
Santosh Dhoke, the director of Pune Airport, shared insights into the operational readiness of the new terminal. "Although BICAS has approved the new terminal at Pune Airport, we are yet to receive the official letter. Once we receive the letter, we will initiate the process of opening the terminal to passengers. However, we cannot provide a specific date at this time," Dhoke said, highlighting the anticipation and the procedural steps remaining before the terminal's grand opening.
Upon the commencement of operations at the new terminal, the existing building will be temporarily closed for renovation. This refurbishment is expected to last a year, after which it will reopen with enhanced facilities, including nine baggage belts to efficiently serve passenger needs. The total number of aerobridges available to passengers will then increase to 10, further facilitating movement and accessibility within the airport premises.
An innovative addition to the new terminal is the introduction of two inline baggage screening systems. This advancement promises to simplify the check-in process by eliminating the need for passengers to scan their luggage individually, thereby reducing wait times and improving the overall efficiency of airport operations.
As the Pune Airport gears up for this significant upgrade, the focus remains on ensuring a smooth transition and an enhanced travel experience for passengers. With careful planning and execution, the airport is poised to meet the growing demands of air travel in the region, reinforcing its position as a key hub in India's aviation network.
