Amidst Lok Sabha Elections, Pune airport gears up by increasing non-scheduled flights by 20%

As the Lok Sabha elections draw closer in Baramati and Pune constituencies, Pune airport is gearing up for a significant increase in non-scheduled flight movements, expected to surge by 20%.

This surge is primarily driven by the escalating demand for chartered aircraft, resulting in a spike in fares and heightened activity at the city’s aviation hub.

In the past 10 days alone, Pune airport has recorded over 50 non-scheduled flight operations, with more expected in the coming days as the election date approaches. The Indian Air Force has allocated a total of 220 slots for flight operations, with approximately 18-19 slots currently vacant. However, constraints on overnight parking due to limited bays pose a challenge in accommodating these operations.

Airport officials anticipate a further surge in flight movements as the electoral season progresses, with parties resorting to chartered flights and helicopters at exorbitant rates. The demand for choppers and private jets has soared, leading to a shortage of approximately 250 aircraft, particularly pronounced in Maharashtra.

The surge in demand has significantly impacted fare rates for air travel services. For instance, the fare for a single-engine chopper has risen to Rs 2.5 lakh per hour from Rs 1.2 lakh per hour, while twin-engine choppers now command Rs 7 lakh per hour compared to Rs 2.5 lakh per hour previously. Turbo prop aircraft now demand Rs 2 lakh per hour, with jets fetching upwards of Rs 10 lakh per hour.

Flight plans must undergo approval by the airport authority and Air Traffic Control, often requiring negotiations to minimize disruptions to regular flight schedules amidst the heightened activity.