In the last few years, air travel from Pune Airport has become a divine experience for the passengers. Despite the opening of the new terminal at the airport, the problems of passengers are increasing day by day. The number of passengers at the airport increased greatly; however, the infrastructure was not expanded to the same extent. Frequent flight delays by airlines are adding to the woes of passengers.
Among the passengers who have travelled from Pune airport, the opinion of all, except the very exception, appears to be negative. Instead of making the journey of passengers comfortable at the airport, it will become unbearable, everything is going on in this manner. It is raining complaints of air passengers on social media. Air travel is often difficult. Despite repeated cries by the passengers, the situation did not improve.
For the last two years, there was a discussion about when the new terminal of Pune Airport would be opened. Even after the work of the terminal was completed, it was not time for its inauguration. It was expected to start soon after the inauguration. The new terminal opened six months later. During this period, the plight of Pune air passengers continued. And now the terminal continues to operate. Passengers have to walk from the new terminal to reach the aeromall. There is a parking lot and you need to get there by car. Aeromall is far from the new terminal. The airport administration has started two e-buses to reach this place. Still, this problem hasn't been resolved.
The Pune airport is owned by the Indian Air Force. Therefore, there are restrictions on flights. The airport is closed from 8 am to 10.30 am. During this period, the Air Force exercises continue. A few days ago, three aircraft were diverted as the Air Force took over the runway for another half an hour. This made the passengers agitated. Same is the case with flights. Some flights are delayed by five to six hours and passengers are informed by the airlines after reaching the airport. As a result, commuters are facing a lot of inconvenience due to this.
There are only two international flights from Pune. To increase it, the runway of Pune airport will have to be expanded. A survey was conducted recently. Along with the runway, the airport parking bay will also have to be expanded. Given the ownership of the Air Force and the limitation of space at the airport, the question arises as to how far this is possible. Therefore, the number of international flights will not increase until this problem is solved. Therefore, instead of relying on the Air Force Airport, a new international airport should be built. Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol is expected to attend the event.
Though the state government has been repeatedly saying that a new international airport will be built in Purandar, no steps have been taken for it. Over the years, nothing has happened beyond preliminary discussions and proposals. Therefore, the question is being raised whether there will be an international airport in Pune. There is a constant demand for an international airport for Pune's future expansion and business. The international airport needed for the future Pune is still in the air. There is a need for people's representatives of all parties in Pune to come together and raise the issue of international airport.
