Pune Airport has recorded an impressive surge in passenger footfall, reflecting the city’s growing prominence as a key travel hub. In the financial year 2024-25, the airport witnessed a 10-11 per cent rise in travellers, reaching an estimated 10.5 million passengers compared to 9.5 million in the previous fiscal year.
This substantial increase is attributed to expanded flight operations, improved infrastructure, and rising demand for domestic and international travel. The surge in passenger traffic comes on the heels of infrastructural advancements, including the expansion of terminal facilities. The opening of a new terminal has facilitated smoother operations, enabling airlines to schedule more flights and cater to the rising influx of passengers. With over 30,000 travellers passing through the airport daily, Pune has strengthened its connectivity to major national and global destinations, including Bangkok, Singapore, and Dubai. As air travel rebounds post-pandemic, the airport’s strategic upgrades have positioned it as a significant player in India’s aviation sector.
Industry experts attribute this growth to multiple factors, including increased business travel, a growing middle class with greater disposable income, and a heightened appetite for leisure trips. The city’s booming IT and manufacturing sectors have played a crucial role in driving demand for frequent domestic and international connectivity. Additionally, enhanced air connectivity to 35 Indian cities has made Pune a preferred departure point for travellers across Maharashtra, reducing dependency on neighbouring airports. The recent introduction of new flight routes and increased frequency of existing ones has also contributed to the steady rise in passenger numbers.
The airport’s latest summer schedule is poised to accommodate 208 daily flight movements, with 104 departures and an equal number of arrivals. The seasonal rush, fuelled by school vacations, is expected to drive higher occupancy rates as families embark on leisure trips to cooler regions in India and abroad. As demand escalates, stakeholders anticipate further expansion in flight operations, reinforcing Pune Airport’s status as a growing aviation hub. The consistent rise in passenger numbers underscores the need for continued investment in infrastructure and sustainability initiatives to accommodate future growth while ensuring an environmentally responsible approach to urban air travel.
