Pune Airport runway extension clears way for international flights

In India, the Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, announced that the Obstacles Limitation Surface (OLS) survey for the extension of Pune International Airport's runway has yielded positive results. Conducted by the Airports Authority of India in July, this survey is crucial for ensuring safe aircraft operations by identifying potential obstacles around the airport. The extension is necessary to accommodate larger aircraft capable of direct flights to international destinations, including Europe and North America. During a recent high-level meeting in Delhi, various logistical issues were discussed, such as land acquisition from the state government and the transfer of land from the Ministry of Defence. Currently, the runway measures 2,535 meters in length, and an extension of approximately 800 meters is required to facilitate the landing of wide-body aircraft. This extension would increase the total runway length to about 10,940 feet, with the potential to reach 11,000 feet. The estimated cost for acquiring the necessary land for this extension is around ₹160 crore. The successful completion of this project is expected to enhance Pune's connectivity and boost the local economy by enabling international flights from the airport. The positive OLS report marks a significant step forward in the development of Pune International Airport, which is vital for the region's growth and accessibility. Overall, the runway extension project is a critical development for Pune, promising to improve air travel options and support the increasing demand for international flights.