Pune: Pune’s aviation sector is witnessing an upsurge in demand for helicopter services, ranging from joy rides to pilgrimage tours. With an estimated five helicopter flights taking off daily, the trend has brought a boost to the local economy.
Known as the “Helicopter Capital” due to its high number of helicopters, Pune has become a hub for aviation services. During the recent election campaigns, approximately 6,000 helicopter flights were conducted across the state, including a significant number originating from Pune and neighboring regions.
In a move to capitalize on this infrastructure, helicopter operators in Pune have launched joy rides, allowing passengers to experience aerial views of the city’s iconic landmarks. The rides, lasting 5 to 10 minutes, cost ₹5,000 to ₹6,000 per person.
Each joy ride accommodates six passengers. Flights take off from helipads near passenger locations, or from designated helipads if none are available in the vicinity. Key landmarks showcased during the ride include Shaniwar Wada, Dagdusheth Ganpati Temple, Mahatma Phule Mandai, and other historical spots.
Operators have also observed a growing preference for helicopter travel to pilgrimage destinations such as Tuljapur, Pandharpur, and Shirdi. Additionally, sites like Bhimashankar, Shegaon, and forts in the region remain popular among tourists. For these extended trips, fares range from ₹1.6 lakh to ₹1.8 lakh per hour.
Captain Nitin Welde of Thumby Aviation, Pune, remarked, “Traveling by helicopter is a luxurious and unique experience, and many people are opting for it. The introduction of joy rides in Pune has received excellent feedback, and some travelers are now prioritizing helicopters for tourism and pilgrimage tours.”
This trend reflects the increasing appeal of premium travel experiences, with helicopters offering a unique perspective of the city and access to remote destinations in comfort and style.
