Pune Airport's New Security Hold Area Construction Progresses, Operational Timeline Uncertain
Pune airport authorities have announced that the construction of a new security hold area is advancing rapidly, with completion targeted for the end of March. However, the facility's operational launch faces potential delays as it awaits mandatory approvals from regulatory bodies, including the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security.
Construction Timeline and Commissioning Process
Santosh Dhoke, Pune airport director, confirmed that construction activities are proceeding at full pace. "We are aiming to finish the new SHA by March end. Following construction completion, the commissioning phase will commence," Dhoke explained. A dedicated BCAS inspection team will thoroughly examine the new facility before granting operational clearance.
"This approval process typically requires additional time," Dhoke noted, emphasizing that the SHA will only become functional after receiving all necessary regulatory endorsements. The new facility is being developed within the airport's former arrival section, with both old and new structures already integrated for seamless operations.
Historical Precedent and Current Expectations
Airport officials referenced previous infrastructure projects to illustrate potential timelines. The new terminal building, inaugurated in March 2024, required approximately four months to become fully operational, primarily due to BCAS-mandated modifications.
"If BCAS recommends changes, airport authorities must implement them," an official stated. "Based on average processing times, we anticipate the new security hold area becoming operational by May." This projection accounts for potential regulatory adjustments similar to those experienced during the terminal building commissioning.
Passenger Growth and Infrastructure Expansion
The expansion comes amid significant passenger traffic increases at Pune airport. Official data reveals 1,08,64,639 passenger movements in 2025, compared to 1,02,36,512 in 2024. Airport authorities anticipate an additional 10 lakh passengers this year, making the new SHA a critical infrastructure enhancement.
"With rising passenger numbers, flight movements will inevitably increase," an official explained. "The new security hold area will help manage this growth effectively." The facility will provide substantial operational benefits:
- Additional 4,000 square meters of departure area space
- Fourteen new check-in counters for improved passenger processing
- Three XBIS machines for enhanced security screening
- Two additional boarding gates to streamline embarkation
Aviation Expert Perspectives and Public Response
Aviation specialists have previously advocated for comprehensive airport expansion, including runway and parking bay enhancements. Meanwhile, frequent flyers have expressed frustration over project delays.
Arun Khera, an entrepreneur and Kharadi resident, voiced concerns about shifting deadlines. "Initial projections suggested December completion with March clearances. Now timelines are extending, mirroring the terminal building experience," Khera observed. "Given recent airline operational challenges, including the IndiGo incident, maintaining project schedules is crucial for aviation infrastructure development."
The new security hold area represents Pune airport's ongoing efforts to accommodate growing air travel demand while enhancing passenger experience through improved facilities and streamlined security processes.
