Airports around the country have started upgrading their terminals and adding terminals for international use. Similarly, Pune International Airport is set to house a new terminal building. The construction of this new terminal was started in 2018 by the Airports Authority of India (AAI). However, they missed five successive deadlines given by the AAI — Jan 2021, Aug 2022, Dec 2022, Jan 2023 and May 2023. But finally, with around seventy-five per cent of work completed, the Pune airport will start a month-long trial run from the 1st of July.
New Addition To The Pune International Airport
The current area of Pune International Airport is 22, 300 sq.m but after the new terminal, the total area will be around 69,678 sq.m. And the airport will have a capacity of sixteen million passengers per year. This new addition is said to reduce congestion during peak hours. The place also features beautiful arches and columns made with local dark stones seen in heritage architecture. They have also added a garden inspired by the Shaniwar Wada, one of the prominent landmarks in Pune.
Also Read: Pune Airport Authorities Are Attempting To Resume The 45-Minute Mumbai-Pune Flight After 3 Years
A Month-Long Trial Run
According to the authorities, nearly seventy-five per cent work is completed and they will carry out trial runs once the construction is completed. The trial run will be for a month and will commence on the 1st of July. During this time, the facilities created for passengers will be tested, identified and taken care of. This will help ensure smooth and hassle-free travel for the passengers.
The construction of the building will be completed in May while its electric work will be completed in June. However, the trial runs will be carried out in phases and the reports will be sent to the Airports Authority of India and the Union Ministry. Then it will be decided when to open the terminal for commercial operation.
The total cost of this project was estimated ₹475 crores. As for other facilities, the airport will have seventy two check-in counters, ten boarding bridges, and an in-line baggage handling system. There will also be retail outlets with space for food and beverages.
Also Read: This Vibrant Economy Hotel In Pune Is In Proximity To The Airport And Prominent Shopping Centres
So, are you ready to see the revamped face of the Pune airport?
Cover Image Courtesy: Wikimedia