Pune: To enhance passenger movement and reduce congestion, Pune Airport has introduced an express lane for feeder buses transporting flyers from the arrival gate to the cab pick-up zone at AeroMall. This measure aims to prevent delays caused by unauthorized vehicle parking near the arrival and departure areas, particularly during late evening hours.
Since March 5, all flights at Pune Airport have been operating from the new terminal. However, improper parking remains a persistent challenge. “We often encounter vehicles parked with engines off and no occupants inside, which results in fines. However, many drivers now keep the engine running with a person inside to evade penalties. When asked to move, they engage in arguments, obstructing the feeder bus route,” said an airport official.
Previously, the airport imposed fines on vehicles parked for more than three to four minutes. Currently, commercial vehicles can drop off passengers but are prohibited from picking them up. Private vehicles, on the other hand, are allowed for both pick-up and drop-off but must exit promptly. Despite designated waiting areas at AeroMall’s multilevel parking, many drivers continue to violate these regulations.
Frequent travelers have raised concerns over transportation delays. “The wait time for airport buses and cabs is sometimes longer than the flight duration itself,” said Amit Thakare, an IT professional.
With growing complaints from passengers, authorities are under increasing pressure to enforce parking regulations more effectively and streamline transportation services at the airport.
