Pune Airport Sets New Benchmarks with State-of-the-Art Integrated Terminal in 2024
Pune, 31st December 2024: Pune International Airport has reached new heights in 2024, with the inauguration of its New Integrated Terminal Building (NITB). The state-of-the-art terminal was virtually inaugurated on March 10, 2024, by Hon’ble Prime Minister Narendra Modi, with the ceremony attended by Maharashtra’s Deputy Chief Ministers Devendra Fadnavis and Ajit Pawar.
Operations at the NITB began on July 14, 2024, under the leadership of Murlidhar Mohol, Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation. Air India and Air India Express were among the first airlines to transition domestic operations to the new terminal. The phased shift culminated on December 24, 2024, with international flights also moving to the NITB, offering passengers a seamless travel experience.
Spanning 51,595 square meters, the NITB boasts a passenger handling capacity of nine million annually. It is designed with sustainability in mind, earning the prestigious GRIHA-4 certification for its eco-conscious features, including natural lighting, rainwater harvesting, and optimized energy usage.
Enhanced Passenger Experience with Advanced Technology
The new terminal integrates state-of-the-art technology to enhance efficiency and comfort:
In-Line Baggage Screening System: This TSA-certified system eliminates the need for separate baggage scanning queues, offering quicker and more secure check-ins.
Smart Visual Docking Guidance System (SVDGS): Deployed at all 10 parking stands, this system automates aircraft docking, improving turnaround times and minimizing errors.
Passenger Boarding Bridges: The terminal’s 10 boarding bridges provide weatherproof, air-conditioned access to aircraft, ensuring smooth boarding and deplaning experiences.
Automated External Defibrillators (AEDs): In collaboration with Ruby Hall Clinic, six AEDs have been installed throughout the terminal to address cardiac emergencies, emphasizing passenger safety.
Modern Amenities and Convenience
The NITB offers a host of passenger-centric facilities, including:
Dining and Shopping: Global brands like Starbucks and KFC join local favorites such as Chitale Bandhu and Ganesh Bhel, catering to diverse tastes.
Executive Lounges: Business travelers can unwind in luxurious lounges equipped with live kitchen counters and comfortable seating.
Mobile Charging Stations: Strategically placed charging stations ensure passengers stay connected while waiting for their flights.
To streamline security processes, the terminal is equipped with 16 advanced X-ray baggage inspection machines (14 for domestic and 2 for international flights). Increased deployment of security personnel has also reduced congestion during pre-embarkation checks, significantly improving the overall passenger experience.
The NITB celebrates Maharashtra’s rich heritage through its unique design and artwork. Travelers are welcomed by a grand bronze statue of Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj and a monumental national flag mast. Inside, murals of the Shiv Rajyabhishek, sculptures of traditional musical instruments, and vibrant depictions of Paithani sarees immerse passengers in the state’s culture, creating a lasting impression.
In 2024, Pune Airport enhanced its international network, introducing direct flights to Singapore, Bangkok, and Dubai. Airlines such as IndiGo and Air India Express launched new routes to these destinations, strengthening Pune’s global connectivity. On December 8, 2024, the airport set a record with 204 flight movements in a single day, solidifying its status as a major regional aviation hub.
Pune Airport’s green initiatives include the introduction of electric buses and golf carts to connect the terminal with Aero Mall. The terminal’s energy-efficient design and eco-friendly transport options underscore its dedication to environmental sustainability.
The New Integrated Terminal Building at Pune Airport is a testament to the airport’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and passenger comfort. By combining cutting-edge technology, cultural pride, and environmental responsibility, Pune Airport has set a new standard for Indian aviation, offering travelers a truly world-class experience.
