Direct Flights from Pune to Europe Likely Soon, Says Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol
Pune: In a major boost for air connectivity, Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol has announced that direct international flights from Pune to Europe are likely to become a reality within the next one-and-a-half years.
At present, Pune Airport does not have direct flights to European destinations due to infrastructural limitations, especially the insufficient runway length to handle wide-bodied aircraft. Mohol confirmed that the process to extend the runway has already begun, which will involve acquiring nearly 300 acres of land.
According to the minister, the funding for land acquisition will be shared among government bodies: 60% by the Maharashtra government, 20% by the Pune Municipal Corporation, 10% by the Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation (PCMC), and the remaining 10% by the Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority (PMRDA).
“Currently, there are no direct international flights operating out of Pune because the runway isn’t long enough to accommodate the aircraft required for such routes. Once the runway extension is completed, Punekars will be able to fly directly to Europe,” Mohol said.
The announcement aligns with a broader plan to strengthen air infrastructure in the region. Mohol also provided an update on the much-delayed Purandar Airport project, confirming that the state government has finalised its location and initiated the land acquisition process. “The fact that Pune will soon have an international airport at Purandar is a matter of pride for both the city and western Maharashtra,” he added.
The new airport at Purandar is expected to meet international standards and significantly improve connectivity for Pune and surrounding areas in western Maharashtra.
In addition, Mohol highlighted ongoing developments at Pune Airport, noting that operations at the new terminal have fully commenced, with the transition from the old terminal nearly complete. “Even though I travel across the country, Pune will always be my top priority,” he said. “Today, 100% of operations are taking place through the new terminal, and redevelopment of the old terminal has also begun.”
Currently, Pune Airport offers flights to 35 domestic destinations and limited international connectivity, with two flights to Dubai, two to Bangkok, and one to Singapore. The upcoming upgrades aim to position Pune as a stronger international hub, bringing relief to travellers who have long demanded direct flights to Europe and other major global destinations.
