Fly Over Pune: Helicopter Rides in Pune See Rising Popularity for Tourism and Spiritual Trips | Details Inside
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Pune: The city’s aviation sector is witnessing a surge in demand for helicopter services, ranging from joy rides over iconic landmarks to pilgrimage tours. With an estimated five helicopter flights taking off daily, this trend is contributing significantly to the local economy and cementing Pune’s reputation as a center for aviation services.
Dubbed the “Helicopter Capital” due to its high concentration of helicopters, Pune played a pivotal role during recent election campaigns, with approximately 6,000 helicopter flights conducted across Maharashtra, many originating from Pune and its neighboring regions.
To further leverage this infrastructure, helicopter operators in Pune have introduced joy rides, offering passengers a chance to experience stunning aerial views of the city’s historical landmarks. Each ride lasts 5 to 10 minutes, costs ₹5,000 to ₹6,000 per person, and accommodates six passengers. Key landmarks featured during the flights include Shaniwar Wada, Dagdusheth Ganpati Temple, Mahatma Phule Mandai, and other significant spots. Flights typically take off from nearby helipads or designated helipads if local ones are unavailable.
The popularity of helicopter services extends beyond joy rides. Operators have noted growing interest in pilgrimage tours to destinations such as Tuljapur, Pandharpur, and Shirdi. Additionally, tourist spots like Bhimashankar, Shegaon, and nearby forts remain in high demand. For these extended trips, fares range from ₹1.6 lakh to ₹1.8 lakh per hour.
Captain Nitin Welde of Thumby Aviation, Pune, highlighted the appeal of helicopter travel, stating, “Traveling by helicopter is a luxurious and unique experience, and many people are opting for it. The introduction of joy rides in Pune has received excellent feedback, and some travelers are now prioritizing helicopters for tourism and pilgrimage tours.”
This growing trend underscores the increasing appeal of premium travel experiences. Helicopters not only offer a unique perspective of the city’s iconic locations but also provide convenient access to remote destinations, enhancing the tourism and travel landscape of Pune.
