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Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol announced that the 230-acre land currently occupied by the Gliding Centre will be transferred to the Airports Authority of India.
This handover is intended to facilitate the development of the new heliport project. (Photo Credit: X)
Maharashtra is preparing to establish its first exclusive heliport at the Hadapsar Gliding Centre in Pune. The project marks a significant step toward improving regional air connectivity and boosting the state’s aviation infrastructure. On May 26, Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, reportedly announced that the 230-acre plot currently used by the Gliding Centre will be officially transferred to the Airports Authority of India (AAI) to begin work on the heliport.
The project is expected to open up new avenues for faster travel, especially to remote and inaccessible areas, and support emergency services and tourism in the region.
“This is a step towards strengthening regional air connectivity in Maharashtra. The plan to set up a dedicated heliport at the Hadapsar Gliding Centre is still at an early stage, but we are committed to making it happen. The AAI will soon take over the land and detailed planning and design will follow,” said Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Mohol as quoted by Hindustan Times.
The Hadapsar Gliding Centre in Pune has long served as a hub for aspiring aviators. Owned by the Directorate General of Civil Aviation (DGCA), it has played a crucial role in flight training for several decades.
According to a directive from the Ministry of Civil Aviation dated March 4, 2022, the land and infrastructure were reported to be leased to the Airports Authority of India (AAI) for 99 years at a nominal annual rent of just Rs 1. The official handover of the 250-acre property was finalised on December 31, 2024, paving the way for the development of Maharashtra’s first dedicated heliport.
“Once operational, the heliport will provide emergency and medical services, tourism, business travel, and charter operations. Hadapsar’s strategic location makes it ideal for such a facility. It will not only reduce travel time but also boost economic activity in and around Pune,” Union Minister, Mohol told the publication. He revealed that plans are underway for a second heliport in Pune district. However, the site for this new project is yet to be finalised.
Union Minister Murlidhar Mohol also announced plans to set up a world-class aviation gallery at the Hadapsar site to boost public interest and awareness about aviation. The gallery will feature aircraft models, flight simulators, historical displays, and digital exhibits showcasing the history of civil and military aviation in India and globally.
By combining this gallery with the heliport, the government hopes to create Maharashtra’s first integrated aviation hub—blending infrastructure, education, tourism and cultural value.
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Delhi, India, India
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