The much-anticipated inauguration of the New Integrated Terminal Building (NITB) at Pune airport faces further delays, disappointing many Punekars. Prime Minister Narendra Modi, originally scheduled to unveil the terminal in October 2023, has yet to initiate operations more than six months after its completion.
The NITB project has missed multiple deadlines, causing frustration among passengers dealing with congested areas, lengthy check-in queues, and facility disarray at the old terminal. The completed NITB, boasting a 50,000 sq mt area, 10 aerobridges, and 72 check-in counters, aims to address these challenges.
Despite the terminal being ready for over five months, its inauguration remains pending, leaving passengers with inadequate facilities at the old terminal. Fliers are urging the prompt commencement of operations in the new building, emphasizing the urgency amid increased flight operations and expanding destinations.
The Pune airport expansion project, totaling ₹895 crore, includes the NITB, a multilevel car parking facility (₹120 crore), and a new cargo complex (₹300 crore). An anonymous senior AAI official hopes for the new terminal’s operational start in January 2024.
