Pune: After months of anticipation, Pune airport’s new terminal building is finally set to commence operations, with all requisite approvals now secured. Authorities have initiated the final inspection of all equipment, which had been dormant since the building’s inauguration on March 10. The operations are expected to begin by July 15, with a phased approach.
The new terminal, equipped with state-of-the-art facilities such as lifts, escalators, inline baggage check-in systems, and conveyor belts, had remained non-operational pending official clearance. An airport official confirmed, “All equipment has been activated, and we are currently conducting final tests to ensure everything is in optimal condition.” In the initial phase, some airline operations will transition to the new terminal, while others will continue to operate from the existing building. “The transition will occur in two or three stages, but we anticipate the building will be fully operational by July 15,” the official added. A contingent of Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) personnel has begun arriving at the new terminal. The airport authorities emphasised the need for a gradual opening, ensuring all stakeholders, including passengers, are adequately informed. “We cannot open the building abruptly. Proper notifications will be issued to all parties involved,” an official stated.
Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Pune Member of Parliament, Murlidhar Mohol, recently engaged in discussions with senior officials of the Airports Authority of India (AAI) in New Delhi. In a social media post, Mohol detailed his meeting with AAI Chairman Sanjeev Kumar, focusing on the development of several airports in Maharashtra, including Pune. The post mentioned, “AAI is expected to commence Obstacle Limitation Surface (OLS) survey work soon, as the Defence Ministry has already granted permission for runway expansion in Pune. We discussed ways to streamline the process. I also sought updates on various proposals and delays concerning new airport developments in Purandar, Solapur, and Akola.” The upcoming inauguration of the new terminal is poised to significantly enhance passenger experience at Pune airport, alleviating congestion and facilitating smoother operations. With its advanced infrastructure and increased capacity, the terminal is set to become a pivotal asset in the region’s aviation landscape.
