Pune Airport: All 10 Aerobridges Now Fully Operational, Mandatory for Airlines to Use Them for Passenger Safety and Convenience
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Pune, September 10, 2024: All ten aerobridges at Pune International Airport’s new terminal are now fully utilized, eliminating the inconvenience of walking from the aircraft parking bay to the terminal.
This move significantly improves passenger safety by reducing the risk of accidents that had become a concern in recent years. Previously, airlines minimized aerobridge use to avoid rental costs, forcing hundreds of passengers to walk across the busy airside daily. This practice posed a threat to safety, as the airside is filled with vehicles such as baggage tractors, pushback tugs, and fuel bowsers, operating 24/7.
Following pressure from airport authorities, the use of aerobridges is now mandatory for all airlines. The airport has ten aerobridges in total, with five linked to the new terminal and five to the old terminal. Prior to this mandate, despite having aerobridges and ladders available, passengers were often forced to walk in areas where ground vehicles moved constantly, heightening the risk of accidents. Two accidents involving ground staff were recorded in the past three months, prompting the decision to fully activate all aerobridges and eliminate the need for buses to transfer passengers.
Current Status at Pune Airport:
- Total Aerobridges: 10
- Flights Departing from New Terminal: 58
- Flights Landing at New Terminal: 58
- Flights Departing from Old Terminal: 37
- Flights Landing at Old Terminal: 37
- Daily Passengers: 38,000 (both terminals combined)
The bustling environment of the airport’s airside, with constant vehicle movement, was a major concern for passenger safety. Ground staff are often pressured to adhere to tight schedules, leading to potential violations of safety protocols. With aerobridges now mandatory, the risk of accidents has been greatly reduced, providing seamless access from the aircraft to the terminal.
The decision to mandate aerobridge use not only enhances safety but also improves the overall passenger experience, streamlining the boarding and deboarding process. With the elimination of buses and all aerobridges operational, passengers can expect smoother and safer journeys at Pune International Airport.
