AAI awaits dates from PMO for the inauguration of Pune's new airport

The New Integrated Terminal Building (NITB) at Pune Airport, which was originally slated for inauguration in October 2023 by Prime Minister Narendra Modi, remains unopened, more than three months after its completion. Despite the project being finalized and trial runs carried out, the official announcement for the commencement of operations from the new terminal building has not been made. Airport officials are currently awaiting scheduling from the Prime Minister's Office (PMO) for the inauguration.

Missed Deadlines and Growing Need

This delay marks another setback for the NITB project, which has already missed five to six earlier deadlines set by the agencies involved. The urgency for a larger terminal building became evident due to the increasing number of flight operations and the introduction of new destinations connected to Pune Airport. Travelers have voiced their concerns about the existing terminal building's inadequacies, including unpleasant odors and a lack of proper maintenance. The contract for the construction of the new integrated terminal building was awarded to ITD Cementation India Ltd. The consulting work for this project was undertaken by the French company, Egis.

Passenger Frustration

Passengers who frequently use Pune Airport have expressed their frustration with the old terminal building's conditions. They have cited issues such as unpleasant odors and a lack of proper maintenance. Many argue that a city like Pune, with its expanding demand and connectivity, deserves a more spacious and modern terminal building akin to those found in major metropolitan areas like Mumbai and Delhi.

Facility Highlights

Once operational, the NITB will offer a total built-up area of 50,000 square meters, featuring 10 aerobridges and 72 check-in counters. Three of these aerobridges will connect to both the old and new terminal buildings. The expansive Pune Airport expansion project encompasses the construction of the new terminal building, with an estimated cost of ₹475 crore, a multilevel car parking facility costing ₹120 crore, and a new cargo complex priced at approximately ₹300 crore. Located on the eastern side of the existing terminal building, the new terminal will significantly increase the airport's total size from 22,300 square meters to 74,300 square meters upon completion.