Work on the redevelopment of Pune's city airport terminal building is slated to begin in June, with a budget of Rs25 crore allocated for the project. Airport officials anticipate the integration of the existing structure with the new terminal, with additional equipment to be installed as the project progresses. The existing building's redevelopment is expected to conclude by March next year, aiming to address long-standing complaints about chaos and inadequate facilities in the current terminal. Once complete, the new departure area will feature 16 check-in counters and five X-ray baggage scanning machines, enhancing operational efficiency and passenger experience.
Despite the delay in operationalizing the new terminal, virtually inaugurated by Prime Minister Narendra Modi in March, plans are underway to repurpose the existing space. The arrival area will transform into another departure section, while the first floor will become a new security hold area. However, pending approvals for floor plans and additional CISF deployment, along with awaited manpower, may impact the timeline. Nevertheless, officials aim to shift operations to the new building during construction, expecting completion within eight to nine months.