Pune Airport
Pune Airport
Pune Airport (IATA: PNQ, ICAO: VAPO) is a significant aviation facility in India, situated in Pune, Maharashtra. This airport not only serves as a customs airport for civilian purposes but also functions as an Indian Air Force base, known as the Lohagaon Air Force Station.
History and Development
Originally established as a military airbase, Pune Airport has undergone several expansions to cater to growing passenger traffic. In the financial year 2024–25, the airport handled over 10.4 million passengers, making it the ninth-busiest airport in India by passenger traffic. The airport has seen a significant rise in passenger numbers since 2004, marking its importance in the region's connectivity and development.
Infrastructure
The airport features a single runway oriented 10/28, measuring 2,540 meters (8,330 feet) long, which supports both domestic and international flight operations. In 2008, the airport marked a significant milestone by linking with Europe via Lufthansa flights connecting to Frankfurt, enhancing its international connectivity.
Recognition
In 2025, Pune Airport was acknowledged for its service quality, being ranked first among Indian airports in the Airports Council International–Airport Service Quality (ACI-ASQ) survey for airports handling 5–15 million passengers. It achieved an impressive score of 4.96 out of 5 in the third and fourth quarters.
New Pune International Airport
There is a proposed project known as the New Pune International Airport, a greenfield development intended to augment the region's aviation infrastructure. This project aims to be located near Pune city in the Pune District, poised to further support the area's economic growth and connectivity in the coming years.
Related Infrastructure
Pune Junction railway station is a major railway hub in the city, reflecting the integrated transport network that supports Pune's status as a significant urban center. The city's development is also bolstered by educational institutions like Savitribai Phule Pune University, contributing to a vibrant regional economy.
Related Topics
Pune Airport serves as a critical link in India's aviation landscape, bridging both civilian and military functions and contributing to the region's economic and cultural development.