Why is Pune Planning to Build Maharashtra's Largest Airport

Summary

Pune, one of India's fastest-growing cities, is expanding its infrastructure to accommodate the growing demand for air travel. The existing Pune Airport, initially established as a military base during World War II, has evolved into a key hub for both domestic and international flights. However, the airport's capacity has been surpassed, leading to plans for a new greenfield airport in Purandar, designed to handle up to 6 crore passengers annually. The project promises to boost the region’s economy, improve connectivity, and alleviate congestion at Mumbai's airport, with modern amenities, dedicated cargo facilities, and sustainable construction methods.

Takeaways

• 😀 Pune's rapidly growing IT industry is driving an increase in air travel demand, leading to a need for expanded airport capacity.
• 😀 Pune Airport, initially a military airfield established in 1939, serves both the Indian Air Force and civilian flights.
• 😀 The current Pune Airport handles 95 lakh passengers annually, exceeding its designed capacity of 40 lakh passengers.
• 😀 The airport’s single runway and limited terminal space have caused delays and operational challenges over the years.
• 😀 Pune's airport has experienced substantial growth since the 1970s, with international routes added in the 2000s to cities like Dubai and Singapore.
• 😀 A new greenfield airport, Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje International Airport, is planned to address capacity issues, located 40 km south of Pune in Purandar.
• 😀 The new airport will feature two runways and a capacity to handle 2 crore passengers in its first phase, expanding to 6 crore in future phases.
• 😀 The new airport will also include a dedicated cargo terminal, crucial for supporting regional industries like agriculture and manufacturing.
• 😀 A comprehensive infrastructure plan, including road, rail, and metro connections, will enhance access to the new airport and improve connectivity within the Pune region.
• 😀 The new airport will alleviate congestion at Mumbai's airport, providing easier access to international destinations for travelers from Pune and surrounding areas.

Q & A

What has contributed to Pune's rapid growth in recent years?

Pune's rapid growth is primarily driven by its booming IT industry, which has attracted millions of people. The city's increasing industrial and educational hubs also contribute to its expansion.

How many passengers does Pune's existing airport handle annually?

Pune's existing airport handles around 95 lakh passengers annually, though with growing demand, a new airport is being planned to accommodate more.

What is the capacity goal for the new airport being planned in Pune?

The new airport is designed to handle 6 crore passengers, which aligns with the increasing population of Pune Metropolitan Region.

What challenges has Pune’s current airport faced due to its growth?

The existing airport faces challenges such as limited space, a short runway, and delays due to the shared use with the Indian Air Force, which limits its ability to expand.

When did commercial flights begin operating from Pune’s airport?

Commercial flights began operating in Pune's airport in 1978, initially starting with domestic flights.

What are some key improvements made to the Pune airport in recent years?

Key improvements include the construction of a new terminal, better lighting and navigation systems for 24-hour operations, and the expansion of the apron to accommodate more aircraft.

What are the current limitations of Pune’s airport?

The current airport still operates with a single 2 km runway, and its capacity is limited due to space constraints, especially for handling larger aircraft.

What is the name of the new airport being planned in Pune, and why is it significant?

The new airport is named Chhatrapati Sambhaji Raje International Airport, which is planned to be a major hub for both domestic and international flights, providing better connectivity and expanding Pune's global reach.

What role will the new airport play in boosting Pune's economy?

The new airport is expected to serve as a cargo hub, enhancing logistics for Pune's key industries like automotive and pharmaceuticals, and driving economic growth and employment in the region.

How will the new airport impact transportation in and around Pune?

The new airport will be well-connected through roads, rail, and metro networks, making it easier for passengers to access the airport from various parts of Pune and neighboring towns, reducing congestion and improving connectivity.