Special Correspondent
Pune : Pune Airport has reached a significant milestone in 2024 by surpassing 1 crore passengers, marking an impressive 8.8% increase in traffic compared to the previous year. The airport recorded a total of 1,02,77,695 passengers, up from 94,39,335 passengers in 2023. This is the first time in its history that Pune Airport has crossed the one-crore passenger mark, underscoring its growing role as a vital aviation hub.
The total passenger traffic includes both domestic and international travelers, reflecting the increasing demand for air travel from Pune. International passenger traffic saw a notable rise, growing by 16.6% from 1,70,503 passengers in 2023 to 1,98,810 passengers in 2024. Meanwhile, domestic travel also experienced a surge, with domestic passenger numbers reaching 1,00,78,885 compared to 92,68,832 in the previous year.
December 2024 was the busiest month, recording the highest footfall of the year with 9,95,454 passengers, followed by November with 9 lakh passengers. May and October also saw strong performances, with over 8.9 lakh and 8.4 lakh passengers respectively. The steady growth, particularly during peak seasons, reflects the rising preference for air travel and the success of the airport’s recent upgrades.
Santosh Dhoke, Managing Director of Pune Airport, expressed optimism for further growth, anticipating a 10% increase in passenger traffic in 2025. He credited the new terminal and in-line baggage screening system for significantly improving passenger processing times and overall operational efficiency. Additionally, the airport has recorded up to 200 flight movements on certain days, showcasing its capacity to handle increased traffic.
The surge in passenger numbers is attributed to several factors, including enhanced infrastructure, improved flight connectivity, and the region’s thriving economic and tourism sectors. The new terminal, which opened in 2024, has boosted the airport’s capacity with better amenities and faster processing times. The introduction of the in-line baggage screening system has further streamlined the check-in process, reducing wait times and ensuring smoother transitions through security checks.
As Pune continues to expand as a major air travel hub, the airport’s growth mirrors the rising demand for domestic and international flights. The introduction of more non-stop international routes, particularly to destinations in the Middle East and Southeast Asia, along with increased connectivity to major cities within India, has contributed to Pune Airport’s success.
