Pune: SpiceJet Launches Direct Flight to Varanasi from March 30
SpiceJet has introduced a new direct flight connecting Pune to Varanasi, operational from March 30 as part of its summer schedule. This is the only new route added to Pune airport’s flight schedule.
The flight will operate six days a week, departing from Pune at 12:30 AM, except on Saturdays.
A senior Pune airport official revealed that 104 out of 109 available slots have been occupied by airlines, with the Pune-Varanasi route being the sole addition. “We expect airlines to utilize the remaining slots as the schedule progresses,” the official stated, adding that no new international flights were introduced.
On Sunday, Pune airport recorded 204 flight movements, including 102 arrivals and 102 departures. The airport has seen a rise in passenger traffic since the opening of its new terminal last year, with efforts now focused on enhancing operational efficiency.
Pune Airport Expands Domestic Connectivity
Pune Airport Director Santosh Dhoke highlighted that the updated summer schedule has strengthened Pune’s domestic network, now offering direct connections to 34 cities across India. Internationally, Pune maintains direct flights to Singapore, Dubai, and Bangkok.
However, challenges remain, particularly regarding congestion and passenger complaints about the taxi pick-up process at AeroMall.
Nationwide Increase in Flight Movements
On a national level, the DGCA’s summer schedule has seen a 5.5% increase in weekly flights, with 25,610 weekly operations from 129 airports between March 30 and October 25. Last year, the figure stood at 24,257 weekly flights.
