Pune could soon have a direct flight connection to Bangkok as part of this year's winter schedule, with Air India Express in the process of finalizing the route.

The airline has reached out to both Pune and Bangkok airport authorities regarding the availability of slots for this new international route, and both have confirmed that the required slots are available.

The Pune-Bangkok flight service had been operational prior to the pandemic but was discontinued when international flights were suspended during the early phase of COVID-19.

Since then, the route has not been reestablished. However, with Pune Airport's newly inaugurated terminal, expectations are high that an increase in flight services will occur, including the long-anticipated Bangkok connection.

Pune currently has international flights to Dubai and Singapore. The addition of the Bangkok route would connect Pune to Thailand, enhancing the city’s international connectivity and providing another travel option for passengers. This development would make Thailand the third country with a direct connection from Pune, further bolstering the city's status as an international hub.

Increased Air Traffic Expected at Pune Airport

According to the Pune Airport administration, an average of 190 flights operate daily, with approximately 95 takeoffs and 95 landings. The airport handles around 35,000 passengers per day, and with the anticipated addition of the Bangkok service, this number is likely to increase.

Santosh Dhoke, Director of Pune Airport, confirmed that the required slot availability for the Pune-Bangkok flight has been communicated to Air India Express. The resumption of this service will likely boost the city’s air traffic and provide much-needed international connectivity to the Asia-Pacific region.