Pune Airport

Pune Airport Visiting Guide: History, Significance, Tickets, and Travel Tips

Date: 03/07/2025

Introduction

Pune Airport, officially renamed Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj International Airport in 2024, is a crucial aviation gateway in western India. Located in Lohegaon, about 10 kilometers northeast of Pune’s city center, the airport seamlessly blends its military roots with contemporary civil aviation operations. Serving over 9 million passengers annually (as of 2018–2019), Pune Airport mirrors the region’s rapid transformation as a center for education, IT, manufacturing, and culture. Renaming the airport after Sant Tukaram Maharaj, a revered 17th-century Marathi saint and poet, underscores its connection to Maharashtra’s spiritual heritage and community identity.

This comprehensive guide explores Pune Airport’s development, infrastructure, expansion plans, and practical visitor information. You’ll find details on visiting hours, ticketing, accessibility, travel tips, and key nearby attractions—everything you need for a smooth and enriching travel experience. For ongoing updates, always refer to official resources and trusted news sources (Punekar News, The Bridge Chronicle, Discover Airport).

Introduction
Historical Development of Pune Airport
Renaming of Pune Airport: Honoring Sant Tukaram Maharaj
Visiting Hours and Ticketing Information
Travel Tips and Accessibility
Nearby Attractions and Historical Sites
FAQ
Summary Table: Historical and Renaming Milestones
Conclusion and Call to Action

Historical Development of Pune Airport

Early Origins and Military Significance

Pune Airport began as an Indian Air Force (IAF) military airfield in Lohegaon. For decades, its primary role was defense. Under a unique dual-use arrangement, the IAF retained operational control while the Airports Authority of India (AAI) managed civil aviation services, reflecting Pune’s strategic importance in the region (Discover Airport).

Transition to Civil Aviation and Growth

With Pune’s emergence as an educational and economic hub, civil operations expanded rapidly from the late 20th century. The airport’s terminal was developed to handle both domestic and select international flights, becoming a key regional gateway. By 2018–2019, annual passenger traffic surpassed 9 million (Discover Airport).

Recent Expansion Initiatives

To support growing demand, major expansion projects are underway. In February 2025, the airport will receive 13 acres of IAF land, enabling construction of a new cargo terminal, additional parking bays for wide-body jets like Dreamliners, and expanded apron areas. These upgrades are projected to boost capacity by 20–30 additional aircraft daily (The Bridge Chronicle).

Renaming of Pune Airport: Honoring Sant Tukaram Maharaj

The Renaming Process and Official Approvals

In 2024, the Maharashtra government approved renaming Pune Airport after Sant Tukaram Maharaj. The proposal, led by Deputy CM Ajit Pawar, swiftly moved through the state assembly and was forwarded to the central government for final notification (Punekar News; Jagran Josh).

Significance of Sant Tukaram Maharaj

Sant Tukaram Maharaj (1608–1649) is a celebrated Marathi saint-poet and social reformer whose abhangas (devotional poetry) and teachings on equality and devotion are central to the Warkari tradition. His maternal roots are believed to trace back to the Lohegaon area, further deepening the airport’s cultural significance (Punekar News).

Community Support and Broader Context

The renaming aligns with a nationwide trend of honoring local heritage through airport names, similar to airports in Ayodhya and Chandigarh. The move has garnered broad political and public support, including endorsements by Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol and state leaders (Hindustan Times).

Visiting Hours and Ticketing Information

Airport Hours: Pune Airport operates 24/7, but terminal services align with flight schedules. Confirm timings with your airline before traveling.
Ticketing: Purchase tickets online via airline websites, authorized agents, or at airport counters during operational hours.
Flight Connectivity: The airport serves 35 domestic and three international destinations (Dubai, Singapore, Bangkok), with plans for direct European flights by 2026.

Travel Tips and Accessibility

Best Times: Avoid peak congestion by traveling mid-morning or late evening.
Transport: Choose from taxis, app-based cabs, airport express shuttles, and soon, integrated metro links.
Parking: Ample short- and long-term parking is available near terminals; check the airport website for rates.
Accessibility: Facilities include ramps, elevators, wheelchair assistance, accessible restrooms, and priority services for differently-abled passengers.
WiFi: 30 minutes of free WiFi is available; international travelers can request access codes at the information desk (India Airports).
DigiYatra: Leverage the DigiYatra app for seamless, contactless check-in using facial recognition (Travel + Leisure Asia).

Nearby Attractions and Historical Sites

Enhance your trip by visiting Pune’s cultural landmarks, all conveniently accessible from the airport:

Shaniwar Wada: Iconic Maratha fortification (see detailed guide below).
Aga Khan Palace: Historic site tied to India’s independence movement.
Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum: Extensive artifact collection.
Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple: Renowned for its spiritual significance.
Pataleshwar Cave Temple: Ancient rock-cut temple.

FAQ

Q1: What are Pune Airport’s visiting hours?
A: Open 24/7, but check-in, security, and retail facilities follow flight schedules.

Q2: How can I book flights?
A: Use airline websites, travel agents, or airport counters.

Q3: Why is the airport renamed after Sant Tukaram Maharaj?
A: To honor the revered saint’s legacy and local heritage.

Q4: Are there parking and accessibility facilities?
A: Yes, both are available.

Q5: Is DigiYatra available?
A: Yes, DigiYatra enables faster, contactless airport processing.

Summary Table: Key Milestones

Year/Date	Event/Development
Pre-2024	Lohegaon Airport serves as a dual-use military-civilian airport
2018–2019	Passenger traffic exceeds 9 million annually
September 2024	Maharashtra cabinet approves renaming
December 2024	State assembly resolution; proposal sent to central government
February 2025	13-acre IAF land transfer for expansion
2025 (pending)	Awaiting central government notification of new name

Terminal Infrastructure and Expansion

The newly inaugurated terminal covers 750,000 sq. ft. and is designed for 16 million passengers annually (HomeBazaar). Key features include:

72 check-in counters
10 passenger boarding bridges
In-line baggage handling
Modern security and immigration

The old terminal is being redeveloped, adding 4,000 sq. meters and integrating with the new facility (PuneNow).

Runway Expansion: Land acquisition will permit larger aircraft and more international flights (Hindustan Times).

Connectivity: Multimodal integration is planned, including metro links, alternate roads, and improved bus services (HomeBazaar).

Future Growth: The new Purandar Airport (40 km away) will handle 75 million passengers annually, with the Detailed Project Report due in 2025 and operations expected by 2029 (Pune Pulse; Punekar News). A water aerodrome at Pavana Dam is also proposed for seaplane connectivity.

Practical Travel Tips

Arrive 2–3 hours before departure.
Enroll in DigiYatra for contactless processing.
Use public transport or pre-booked taxis for convenience.
Request special assistance in advance if needed.

Impact of Airport Expansion

The airport’s ongoing upgrades and new projects will elevate Pune’s status as an aviation and economic hub, generating jobs, boosting connectivity, and supporting tourism and industry (HomeBazaar; PuneNow).

Visiting Shaniwar Wada: History, Tickets, Timings & Travel Tips

Overview

Shaniwar Wada, built in 1732 by Peshwa Bajirao I, served as the seat of the Maratha Empire. Despite fire damage in 1828, it remains a symbol of Pune’s rich history. Key features include the grand Delhi Darwaza, the Lion’s Gate, Mughal-style gardens, and palace ruins.

Visitor Information

Hours: 9:00 AM – 5:30 PM daily
Tickets: INR 25 (Indians), INR 300 (Foreigners), Free for children under 15
Access: 10 km from Pune Airport; easily reachable by taxi, bus, or auto from Pune Railway Station (3 km away)

Experiences

Guided tours and audio guides available
Popular for photography, especially at sunrise/sunset
Evening light and sound show narrates Maratha history (except Mondays)
Ramps and accessible routes for visitors with mobility needs

Nearby Attractions

Dagdusheth Halwai Ganapati Temple (1 km)
Raja Dinkar Kelkar Museum (1.5 km)
Parvati Hill (short drive)

Visitor tips: Wear comfortable shoes, carry water, and visit early or late to avoid crowds. Check the official tourism website for the latest updates.

Useful Links:
Official Pune Tourism - Shaniwar Wada
Shaniwar Wada on Wikipedia

Final Summary & Call to Action

Pune Airport’s evolution from a military base to the Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj International Airport highlights its vital role in Maharashtra’s growth and heritage. The renaming honors Sant Tukaram Maharaj’s legacy, while ongoing expansion, new terminals, and improved connectivity solidify Pune’s status as a future-ready aviation hub.

Travelers benefit from modern amenities, seamless transport, and proximity to Pune’s historical attractions. Stay informed with the Audiala app, follow official airport channels, and consult trusted news sources for the latest information (Hindustan Times, PuneNow, Travel + Leisure Asia).

Download the Audiala mobile app for real-time updates, explore related travel guides, and follow us on social media for exclusive tips and offers.