Land transfer for Pune airport expansion in progress; 3 more golf carts added for passenger transit: Airport Director

Pune Airport Director Santosh Dhoke provided updates on various projects at the airport, including the pending land transfer for expansion, a proposed hub-and-spoke model for international travel, and the reopening of the renovated old terminal building. The 13-acre Indian Air Force land parcel is being transferred, involving multiple authorities.

Dhoke stated that construction of new offices on the land has already begun. The hub-and-spoke model, which would allow passengers to complete pre-departure formalities at Pune Airport before transferring to a domestic flight, requires approval from the Union Ministry of Home Affairs. The renovated terminal building is expected to reopen soon after passing through the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security in Mumbai and Delhi.

Dhoke added that three new golf carts, bringing the total to eight, have been added to assist passengers moving between the arrival terminal and AeroMall, along with two more operated by AeroMall. The airport's fleet also includes three 35-seater buses operating on the same route. Dhoke clarified that the airport is not responsible for delays in SpiceJet flights, attributing them to factors beyond their control.

Additionally, the airport is collaborating with the Pune Municipal Corporation to address stray dog presence, following Supreme Court guidance.