Pune: Direct flights to Bangkok and Doha are likely to be introduced at the Pune Airport in its upcoming winter schedule. Airlines have submitted proposals and requested slots for these routes.

Pune Airport Authority is optimistic about providing these slots, and the services will commence once slots are secured at Bangkok and Doha airports. The chances of these services starting in the winter schedule are high.

Air India Express has proposed the route to Bangkok, while Indigo Airlines has proposed the route to Doha. These proposals are currently under consideration by the Ministry of Civil Aviation. Once approved, efforts to secure slots at Doha and Bangkok airports will begin. Pune Airport Authority is positive about allocating slots to both airlines.

Previously, there was a direct flight from Pune to Doha, but it was discontinued after a few months. Efforts to resume the Doha service are now underway. If the Ministry of Civil Aviation supports the initiation of these two new routes from Pune, they could be operational soon. Pune's Member of Parliament, Murlidhar Mohol, who is also the Minister of State for Civil Aviation, could play a crucial role in making direct flights to Bangkok and Doha available to Pune residents.

Currently, Pune Airport operates two international flight services to Dubai and Singapore. With the winter schedule still months away, a new terminal is expected to open for passengers, potentially increasing the number of flights. This expansion could include both domestic and international routes.

Meanwhile, Star Air is commencing flights from Pune to Nanded from June 27. The flights will be available on every Monday, Tuesday and Thursday, Friday. The flights will take off at 1030 hours from Nanded and land in Pune at 1130 hours. Flights from Pune will take off at 1155 hours and land in Nanded at 1245 hours.