Pune Airport is set to undergo a major transformation with the announcement of a runway extension plan by the Maharashtra government. The Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, revealed that the government will acquire 225 to 250 acres of land to extend the runway, allowing for the accommodation of wide-bodied aircraft.
The progress on the runway extension project has been positive, with an obstacle limitation survey (OLS) already completed in collaboration with various aviation authorities. The survey results have been submitted to the Ministry, and Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis will soon convene a meeting with all stakeholders to discuss the next steps.
The estimated cost for the runway extension is around Rs 160 crore, with the state government, Pune Municipal Corporation, Pimpri-Chinchwad Municipal Corporation, and Pune Metropolitan Region Development Authority all contributing towards the project. This initiative aligns with the government’s regional connectivity scheme, Udan, which aims to make air travel more affordable for passengers.
In addition to the runway extension, the government has also introduced “Udan Cafés” at airports across the country, with the first café recently inaugurated at Kolkata airport. These low-cost food outlets aim to address concerns about overpriced food at airports and provide passengers with more affordable dining options.
At Pune’s Lohgaon Airport, the first Udan Café has already been launched at the new terminal building, offering reasonably priced food and beverages. Airport Director Santosh Dhoke has assured that more Udan Cafés will be opened in accordance with further instructions, ensuring that passengers have access to affordable food options while traveling.
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