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The previous record was 200 flights, reached twice on 16th September and 14th October, before the winter schedule began.
This was the first time PIA crossed the 200-flight mark in a day. (Photo: Pune Pulse)
Pune International Airport (PIA) set a new record, handling 204 flights in just 24 hours — 102 departures and 102 arrivals.
This achievement was a milestone for the airport, as it was the first time it had surpassed 200 flights in a single day.
According to The Indian Express, Airport director Santosh Dhoke credited this record to the start of the winter schedule on 27 October, which saw the addition of more regional and international flights to the airport’s schedule.
The airport had previously hit exactly 200 flights on two occasions: 16 September and 14 October, before the winter schedule kicked off.
With growing national and international connections offered by various airlines, Pune airport is seeing a steady increase in both passenger traffic and flight operations. Dhoke explained that enhanced local and national connectivity, alongside the efforts of airline companies and support from the Airport Authority of India, has been key to this rise in operations.
“Since the winter schedule began, we’ve added flights to destinations like Bhopal, Indore, and two extra flights to South India, as well as increased services to Delhi. The merger of Vistara and Air India has also made better use of available slots,” he said.
“Slot utilisation refers to the specific time airlines are given to operate. However, some airlines don’t always use these slots due to factors like low passenger numbers, crew shortages, or unavailable aircraft,” Dhoke explained.
He also highlighted that improved regional connectivity to places such as Nanded, Sindhudurg, and Jalgaon has played a vital role in boosting slot utilisation and increasing overall flight movements.
