Pune Airport Records Historic 204 Flight Movements in a Single Day

Viman Nagar, 9th December 2024: In a significant milestone for Pune Airport, a record 204 flight movements—comprising 102 departures and 102 arrivals—were registered on Sunday, the highest-ever recorded in a single day. This achievement also marks a peak for the current winter schedule that commenced on October 27, according to airport officials.

“This is the first time we have crossed the 200-movement mark. Sundays typically see high activity, with movements usually ranging between 192 and 198. The increase today is promising,” an official said, reflecting on the unprecedented spike.

Flight slots, which are allocated by the airport operator to airlines for landing and takeoff within specific time frames, have been underutilized in the past. Last week, airport authorities urged airlines to either use their assigned slots consistently or release them for others.

“With more flights joining the roster in the coming weeks, including an international flight to Bangkok by Air India Express later this month, we anticipate even higher activity. While we understand airlines face challenges like limited aircraft availability, it’s crucial they maximize slot utilization,” added the official.

Pune Airport Director Santosh Dhoke attributed the growing flight movements to increasing passenger demand. “We have been observing a steady rise in the number of travelers, and airlines are responding by using their allocated slots more effectively. This trend is likely to continue,” he said.

The airport had previously touched 200 movements twice—on September 16 and October 14. Currently, 10 out of the 216 allocated slots remain vacant, mainly red-eye slots, which are late-night or early-morning timings.

“Even these late-hour slots are seeing growing demand. Flights during these periods often operate at 90% to 95% capacity, indicating a shift in travel preferences,” an official explained.

Meanwhile, work to clear and repurpose the old terminal building is set to begin by the end of this month. Airport officials shared plans to develop a road connecting the new terminal along with landscaped gardens to enhance passenger convenience and aesthetics.

With these developments and rising air traffic, Pune Airport is solidifying its position as a key hub in the region’s aviation network.