Pune Airport’s Major Infrastructure Upgrades Near Completion in 2025

Key Takeaways

• Pune Airport’s old terminal redevelopment completes by August 2025 with 16 new check-in counters added.
• CISF began managing all baggage and cargo screening at Pune Airport as of May 9, 2025.
• Runway extension to 3,335 meters enables larger planes; metro connection planned for May 28, 2025.

Pune Airport’s Major Transformation: Terminal Redevelopment, Security Upgrades, and What It Means for Travelers

Pune Airport is undergoing a major transformation, with its terminal redevelopment and infrastructure upgrades moving quickly toward completion. As of May 2025, the airport is on track to finish the redevelopment of its old terminal by August 2025. The Airports Authority of India (AAI) and the Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, have made it clear that these upgrades are essential to meet the rising number of travelers and to keep up with international standards. The Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) has also taken over all baggage and cargo screening, marking a significant change in airport security. These changes are designed to improve the experience for passengers, boost safety, and prepare Pune Airport to handle more flights and larger aircraft in the near future.

Let’s break down what’s happening at Pune Airport, why these changes matter, and what travelers, businesses, and the local community can expect in the coming months.

Terminal Redevelopment: A New Era for Pune Airport

The most visible change at Pune Airport is the redevelopment of its terminals. The new integrated terminal building (NITB), which covers 36,000 square meters, is now fully operational. This modern facility was inaugurated in March 2024 and started handling passengers in July 2024. The old terminal, which was originally built for much smaller passenger numbers, is now being renovated and expanded by 6,000 square meters. When finished in August 2025, the combined terminals will offer:

• A total of 48 check-in counters (16 new ones in the old terminal)
• Advanced security screening systems
• Expanded passenger amenities such as waiting areas, restrooms, and food outlets

These upgrades are not just about making the airport look better. They are designed to handle the sharp increase in passenger numbers. In 2024, Pune Airport served 1,02,77,695 passengers, which was an 8.88% jump from the previous year. After the redevelopment, the airport will be able to handle up to 1.05 crore (10.5 million) passengers every year.

Minister Murlidhar Mohol has stressed the importance of finishing the work on time and keeping quality high. The Airports Authority of India is overseeing the project, making sure that every part of the upgrade meets strict standards.

Security Upgrades: CISF Takes Charge

A big change in how Pune Airport operates is the new security protocol. As of May 9, 2025, the Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) is now in charge of all baggage and cargo screening. Before this, airlines and airport staff handled these checks. The switch to CISF management is part of a national push to improve airport security, especially after recent concerns about safety at airports across the country.

What does this mean for travelers? Here’s what you need to know:

• All baggage and cargo are now screened by CISF officers
• Expect more thorough security checks at entry points
• Security staff are trained to handle new screening equipment and protocols

According to Pune Airport Director Santosh Dhoke, operations have been running smoothly since the change. There have been no major flight cancellations or disruptions, except for a few airline-specific suspensions caused by outside geopolitical issues.

Security experts have praised the move, saying it will help keep passengers and airport staff safer. As reported by VisaVerge.com, this shift to CISF-managed screening is seen as a strong response to changing security threats and is expected to set a new standard for airports across India 🇮🇳.

Runway Extension: Preparing for Bigger Planes and More Flights

Another major part of Pune Airport’s upgrade is the planned extension of its runway. Right now, the runway is 2,535 meters long. After the extension, it will be about 3,335 meters. This extra length is important because it will allow the airport to handle larger planes, including wide-body aircraft that are used for long international flights.

Here’s what’s happening with the runway project:

• Obstacle Limitation Survey (OLS) was finished in July 2024
• Land acquisition for the extension is set to finish by July 2025
• The cost of acquiring the land is estimated at ₹160 crore
• Once complete, the airport will be able to offer more international flights and better serve business and tourism needs

The runway extension is a long-awaited improvement. It will help Pune Airport compete with other major airports in India 🇮🇳 and support the city’s growing role as a business and technology hub.

Metro Connectivity: Easier Access to the Airport

Getting to and from Pune Airport is about to get much easier. On May 28, 2025, officials announced plans for a 3-kilometer extension of the Pune Metro from Ramwadi station directly to Lohgaon Airport. This new metro link will:

• Connect the airport to the southern parts of Pune
• Make it easier for travelers to reach the airport without using cars or taxis
• Reduce traffic congestion around the airport

The timeline for the metro extension is still being finalized, but the announcement has been welcomed by both travelers and local businesses. Improved public transport will make Pune Airport more accessible and could help attract more international visitors.

How the Upgrades Affect Passengers

If you’re planning to travel through Pune Airport in the coming months, here’s what you should expect:

1. Arrive Early: With ongoing construction and new security checks, it’s best to arrive at least 2 hours before a domestic flight and 3 hours before an international flight.
2. Check-in: Use online check-in and mobile boarding passes if possible to save time at the airport.
3. Security: All baggage and cargo are now screened by CISF. Be prepared for more detailed checks and follow instructions from security staff.
4. Terminal Navigation: Pay attention to signs and announcements. Some parts of the old terminal may be closed for renovation, so you may need to use the new terminal for check-in and boarding.
5. Flight Information: Double-check your departure terminal with your airline, as some flights may be moved during the transition period.

These steps will help you avoid delays and make your journey smoother.

Impact on Businesses and the Local Economy

The upgrades at Pune Airport are not just good news for travelers. They are also expected to have a big impact on the local economy. Here’s how:

• More Flights: The runway extension and expanded terminals will allow more flights, including direct international routes. This will make it easier for businesses in Pune to connect with partners and clients around the world.
• Cargo and Logistics: The airport is adding advanced cargo management systems to handle more goods. This will help local companies export and import products more efficiently.
• Job Creation: The construction work and new facilities are creating jobs for local workers, both during the upgrade and after it’s finished.

Business leaders in Pune have welcomed the changes, saying they will help the city grow as a center for technology, manufacturing, and trade.

Stakeholder Perspectives

Several groups are closely involved in Pune Airport’s redevelopment:

• Airports Authority of India (AAI): Responsible for planning and managing the upgrades, including the terminal redevelopment and runway extension.
• Central Industrial Security Force (CISF): Now in charge of all security screening at the airport.
• Pune Airport Advisory Committee: Recently reformed to include representatives from AAI, CISF, the Indian Air Force, airlines, and local business leaders. This group helps coordinate the different parts of the project and address any concerns from the community.
• Passengers: Some travelers have experienced confusion about which terminal to use, but this is expected to improve as the new terminal becomes the main hub for all flights.

Historical Context: Why These Changes Are Needed

Pune Airport has seen rapid growth in recent years. Passenger numbers have been rising by double digits, putting pressure on the old terminal and existing facilities. The new integrated terminal was built to handle this growth and bring the airport up to international standards.

The runway extension has been in the works for several years. Completing the Obstacle Limitation Survey and starting the land acquisition process were major milestones. These steps are necessary to make sure the airport can safely handle larger planes and more flights.

Looking Ahead: What’s Next for Pune Airport?

The next few years will bring even more changes to Pune’s air travel landscape:

• Terminal Redevelopment: The old terminal’s renovation is on schedule for August 2025. New facilities will open in phases, making the airport more comfortable and efficient for travelers.
• Runway Extension: Land acquisition should finish by July 2025, with construction to follow. Once the longer runway is ready, expect more direct international flights.
• Metro Extension: The 3-kilometer metro link to the airport is planned, but the exact timeline depends on final approvals and construction schedules.
• Purandar Greenfield Airport: In addition to the current upgrades, a brand-new airport is planned at Purandar, about 20 kilometers from Pune. This new airport is expected to open by March 2029 and handle up to 75 million passengers a year. Land acquisition is underway, but there have been protests and negotiations over compensation for local residents.

Practical Guidance for Travelers

If you’re flying from or to Pune Airport in the coming months, here are some practical tips:

• Check the official Pune Airport website (AAI Pune Airport) for the latest updates on terminal assignments, flight schedules, and construction notices.
• Contact your airline ahead of time to confirm which terminal your flight will use.
• Follow all security instructions from CISF staff and allow extra time for screening.
• Use public transport if possible, especially as metro connectivity improves.
• Stay informed about any changes or delays by signing up for flight alerts and checking airport announcements.

Summary Table: Pune Airport Revamp at a Glance

Official Contacts and Resources

For more information or to address specific concerns, travelers and stakeholders can reach out to:

• Pune Airport Official Website: AAI Pune Airport
• AAI Regional Office: For updates on projects and public queries
• Pune Airport Advisory Committee: Contact through the airport director’s office for stakeholder engagement
• CISF Pune Airport Unit: For questions about security procedures

Conclusion: A New Chapter for Pune Airport

Pune Airport’s terminal redevelopment, security upgrades, and infrastructure expansion mark the start of a new chapter for air travel in the region. With the Central Industrial Security Force now handling all baggage and cargo screening, travelers can expect higher safety standards. The expanded terminals and upcoming runway extension will make it possible to welcome more passengers and larger planes, opening the door to new international routes and business opportunities.

As Pune continues to grow as a major city for business, technology, and education, these airport upgrades will play a key role in connecting the city to the rest of India 🇮🇳 and the world. Whether you’re a frequent flyer, a business traveler, or a local resident, staying informed about these changes will help you make the most of Pune Airport’s new and improved facilities.

For the latest updates, always check the official AAI Pune Airport website. Analysis from VisaVerge.com suggests that these upgrades will set a new benchmark for regional airports across India 🇮🇳, making Pune Airport a model for others to follow.

By planning ahead and following the new procedures, travelers can look forward to a safer, faster, and more comfortable journey through Pune Airport in the years to come.

Learn Today

Terminal Redevelopment → The renovation and expansion of airport terminal buildings to increase capacity and improve facilities.
Central Industrial Security Force (CISF) → A federal security agency now responsible for baggage and cargo screening at Pune Airport.
Runway Extension → Lengthening of the airport runway to accommodate larger, wide-body aircraft for international flights.
Obstacle Limitation Survey (OLS) → An evaluation to identify obstacles affecting aircraft safety during runway extension projects.
Integrated Terminal Building (NITB) → A new, modern terminal facility at Pune Airport covering 36,000 square meters.

This Article in a Nutshell

Pune Airport is rapidly transforming, completing terminal redevelopment by August 2025 and enhancing security with CISF-led screening. Runway extensions and metro links will support growing passenger volume, elevating the airport’s capacity to 10.5 million annually and improving safety and accessibility for business and tourism travelers.
— By VisaVerge.com