Pune: The Digi Yatra service at Pune Airport’s new terminal was inaugurated on Saturday (February 8) by Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation, Murlidhar Mohol. This digital check-in system is expected to save time and enhance convenience for travelers.

Minister Murlidhar Mohol stated that discussions are ongoing regarding the future of the old terminal—whether it should be modernized or rebuilt entirely. A decision will be made soon, and efforts will be taken to bring it to the same level of efficiency and aesthetics as the new terminal.

Mohol highlighted that over 40 million passengers across India have already benefited from Digi Yatra. The service has been launched at 24 major airports, and 70-75% of passengers have opted to use it. The government is actively working on reducing wait times and improving airport services, ensuring better passenger satisfaction.

Pune Airport Expansion Plans

Discussing Pune Airport’s future growth, Mohol mentioned that:

• The runway expansion is being planned to accommodate international flights.

• Pune’s population has reached 7 million, and future infrastructure must consider the next 50 to 100 years.

• A land acquisition plan for the runway expansion has been finalized, including assessing available defense and private land.

• Maharashtra Deputy CM Devendra Fadnavis has already reviewed the expansion plan in a recent Mumbai meeting.

• Once the land survey process is completed, the acquisition process for runway expansion will begin, ensuring better connectivity for international flights.

At the inaugural event, Ravindra Chavan, BJP’s State Executive President, became the first passenger to use the Digi Yatra service and was welcomed with a rose. Other dignitaries present included MLA Bapusaheb Pathare, BJP State Vice President Rajesh Pandey, AAI General Manager P.K. Dutta, Pune Airport Director Santosh Doke, and CISF Chief Santosh Suman.