Increase in Non-Scheduled Flights Anticipated at Pune Airport Ahead of Elections

Pune, 29th April 2024: As the Lok Sabha elections in Baramati and Pune constituencies draw near, Pune airport braces for a surge in non-scheduled flight movements, expected to rise by 20%. The escalating demand for chartered aircraft has led to a spike in fares, prompting heightened activity at the city’s aviation hub.

According to Pune airport officials, more than 50 non-scheduled flight operations have been recorded at Pune airport in the past 10 days alone. “The anticipated increase in non-scheduled movements is directly correlated to the upcoming elections,” stated Pune airport director Santosh Dhoke. “The Indian Air Force has allocated a total of 220 slots for flight operations, with approximately 18-19 slots currently vacant. While we endeavor to accommodate non-scheduled operations, constraints on overnight parking due to limited bays pose a challenge.”

Echoing this sentiment, another airport official highlighted the prevalence of chartered flights over helicopters in current aviation activity. “As the elections approach, we anticipate a further surge in non-scheduled flight movements, necessitating meticulous preparations,” the official added.

The electoral season typically witnesses a flurry of political activity nationwide, with parties resorting to chartered flights and helicopters, albeit at exorbitant rates. Ishwarchandra Gulgule, managing director of Kagiu Aviation, underscored the unprecedented demand for air travel services across the country. “The demand for choppers and private jets has skyrocketed, resulting in a shortage of approximately 250 aircraft,” Gulgule remarked. “This surge in demand is particularly pronounced in Maharashtra.”

Highlighting the substantial increase in fares, Gulgule outlined the current rates for air travel services. “The fare for a single-engine chopper now stands at Rs2.5 lakh per hour, compared to the previous rate of Rs 1.2 lakh per hour. Similarly, twin-engine choppers command Rs 7 lakh per hour, up from Rs2.5 lakh per hour previously. Turbo prop aircraft now demand Rs2 lakh per hour, while jets fetch upwards of Rs10 lakh per hour,” Gulgule elaborated.

Aviation expert Deepak Shastri emphasized the regulatory processes governing non-scheduled flight operations. “Flight plans must be approved by the airport authority and Air Traffic Control, with negotiations often occurring to minimize disruptions to regular flight schedules,” Shastri explained.