MoD Approves Survey for Pune Airport Runway Expansion to Boost International Operations

The Ministry of Defence (MoD) has given its nod for an obstacle limitation surface (OLS) survey crucial for expanding the runway at Pune Airport, a move aimed at enhancing its capability to handle widebody aircraft and bolster international flight services.

An OLS survey plays a pivotal role in identifying and mapping obstacles surrounding an airport to ensure safe aircraft operations and compliance with aviation regulations. By delineating protected airspace, the survey helps prevent potential interference during takeoff, landing, and aircraft manoeuvring. This capability is particularly vital for accommodating widebody planes, known for their larger fuel capacities that enable direct long-haul flights to destinations in Europe, North America, and beyond.

Murlidhar Mohol, Minister of State for Civil Aviation, highlighted the significance of the MoD's approval: "The Ministry of Defence today has approved the much-awaited OLS survey for the runway expansion at the Pune International Airport... The decision was made in a meeting chaired by the Defence Secretary, with the presence of the Divisional Commissioner of Pune, affirming that the Airports Authority of India (AAI) will conduct the OLS survey."

"This survey will pave the way for runway expansion, facilitating operations of large-sized aircraft typically used for international travel from Pune! I am grateful to Hon’ble Raksha Mantri Shri Rajnath Singh ji for this swift decision following my earlier requests on this matter," Mohol added.

Pune Airport, which operates under dual civilian and defence use, currently manages 1,264 flights per week, with a limited number of 26 international services, according to data from aviation analytics firm Cirium. These international flights are currently operated by SpiceJet and Vistara, connecting Pune to destinations like Dubai and Singapore.

The approval for the OLS survey marks a significant step forward in Pune Airport's journey towards expanding its infrastructure and enhancing connectivity on the global aviation map.

BS