Pune, 24 March 2026: Airfares from Pune have begun to climb after the Ministry of Civil Aviation removed caps on domestic ticket prices, allowing airlines to set fares based on demand and operational costs.
On the very first day, ticket prices for flights from Pune to cities like Kolkata and Ahmedabad increased by 5 to 10 percent.
With fare restrictions lifted, airlines are now using dynamic pricing models more aggressively. As bookings increase, often after just 20 percent of seats are filled, ticket prices rise sharply. This trend indicates that air travel from Pune is likely to become significantly more expensive in the coming months.
Earlier, passengers had received relief when the government imposed a fare cap of ₹18,000 following public outrage over steep price hikes during service disruptions caused by technical issues at IndiGo in December.
However, recent developments, including global tensions affecting fuel prices and changes in booking regulations, led airlines to demand removal of these limits.
The government has now restored pricing freedom to airlines, enabling them to factor in rising fuel costs, operational expenses, and fluctuating demand. The ongoing conflict in West Asia has pushed up aviation fuel prices, adding financial pressure on carriers.
As a result, fares are expected to rise by 10 to 25 percent starting April 2026, especially during peak travel periods like summer vacations and wedding season.
“Due to the war in Gulf countries, many travelers have cancelled international trips and are now opting for domestic travel. With fare caps removed, domestic air travel will naturally become more expensive. This will directly impact ticket prices on routes from Pune to North India and the Northeast,” said Nilesh Bhanushali, President, Travels Association of India, Pune.
Aviation expert Dhairyashil Wandekar also highlighted that increasing demand, rising fuel costs, and lack of regulation on last-minute bookings are contributing to the surge in ticket prices.
Overall, a combination of seasonal demand, global fuel price fluctuations, and policy changes is driving the increase in airfares, with Pune passengers likely to feel the impact more prominently in the coming weeks.