Auto Parts and Pharmaceuticals Fuel 23.8% Cargo Growth at Pune Airport in 2025

Pune International Airport has witnessed a remarkable surge in cargo operations in 2025, emerging as a key logistics hub in western India. Handling 49,718.7 metric tonnes of cargo during the year, the airport recorded a 23.8% increase compared to 40,149.6 metric tonnes in 2024, reflecting the growing importance of Pune in domestic trade and supply chains.

The increase was primarily fueled by domestic cargo, which accounted for 49,595.2 metric tonnes, up from 40,028.3 metric tonnes the previous year. Pune Airport Director Santosh Dhoke attributed this growth to strategic upgrades in infrastructure, better coordination with airlines and logistics partners, and a focus on creating a reliable ecosystem for cargo stakeholders.

“2025 was all about strengthening operational efficiency for cargo handling. By improving facilities and building strong partnerships, Pune is steadily establishing itself as a preferred logistics and cargo hub in the region,” Dhoke said.

Among the cargo categories, auto components and pharmaceuticals were the leading contributors, each representing roughly 30% of total domestic shipments. Perishables such as fruits, vegetables, flowers, and day-old chicks made up another 25%, highlighting the diversity of goods handled at the airport. Month-wise data shows steady growth throughout the year, with particularly strong performance during September, October, and November. International cargo volumes remained small, totaling just 123.5 metric tonnes.

Local exporters, like Sagar Chintal, have welcomed the increase, citing faster turnaround times and improved reliability as critical for reaching markets more efficiently.

A Year of Transformation Beyond Cargo

2025 was also a historic year for Pune Airport in terms of infrastructure and passenger services. Under the leadership of Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol, the airport completed a complete transition from the Old Terminal Building (OTB) to the new Integrated Terminal Building (NITB). The older terminal, with 22,300 sq. m and a peak capacity of 2,340 passengers, has been replaced by a 52,000 sq. m terminal designed to handle 3,000 passengers at peak hours. Passengers now benefit from wider concourses, more seating areas, and a fully separated arrivals and departures layout, reducing congestion significantly.

The new terminal also emphasizes sustainability, earning a GRIHA 4-star rating. It features a 567 KL rainwater harvesting system, a 1,130 KLD sewage treatment plant, heat-resistant roofing, energy-efficient LED lighting, and high-efficiency HVAC systems. Additionally, a modern power backbone with 11 kV substations, dual MSEDCL connections, and SCADA monitoring ensures minimal disruption to operations.

Passenger services have seen a parallel upgrade, including 34 check-in counters, 10 boarding bridges, 15 elevators, 8 escalators, and an inline baggage system integrated with security scanners. DigiYatra e-gates are fully operational, complemented by 106 digital flight information screens, making navigation smoother than ever.

Traffic data mirrors this transformation. Aircraft movements grew from 67,484 in 2024 to 70,992 in 2025, a 5.1% increase, while passenger traffic exceeded 10.86 million, up 6.1% year-on-year. Cargo, as noted, surged nearly 23.8%, with domestic shipments dominated by auto parts, medical supplies, perishables, and e-commerce consignments, where auto and pharma together accounted for 60% of domestic freight.

Passenger satisfaction also improved consistently. Pune’s Airport Service Quality (ASQ) scores rose quarter-on-quarter: 4.92 in Q1, 4.94 in Q2, and 4.96 in Q3, boosting its global ranking from 59 to 56 and making it the highest-rated AAI-operated airport worldwide.

Expanding Commercial and Community Services

The airport’s commercial footprint has expanded dramatically. The new terminal hosts 83 outlets, up from 28, including 32 food and beverage points and 40 retail stores spanning multiple price ranges. Executive lounges have doubled in number, smoking rooms increased, and wellness and duty-free facilities are in the pipeline. Employment at commercial counters has quadrupled to 675 personnel, ensuring shorter queues and faster service.

Community engagement also remains a priority. Activities such as Yatri Sewa Diwas, cultural programs, blood donation drives, environmental initiatives, and educational outreach continued throughout the year without affecting airport operations.