Pune Airport’s 15-Minute Vehicle Rule Still Awaits Implementation
Pune Airport’s proposed 13-15 minute time limit for private vehicles picking up or dropping off passengers remains pending nearly a year after it was first discussed. Airport authorities say the proposal is in its final stages, but no implementation date has yet been announced.
Pune: Nearly a year after plans were announced to regulate private vehicles entering Pune Airport, the proposed time-bound pick-up and drop-off system is yet to be implemented, leaving passengers to continue dealing with congestion around the terminal.
The system was proposed to prevent private vehicles from waiting for long periods near the terminal while picking up or dropping off passengers. Under the plan discussed by airport authorities, vehicles would be given approximately 13 to 15 minutes to enter the airport premises, complete the pick-up or drop-off and leave. Vehicles exceeding the permitted time could face a penalty.
Airport Director Santosh Dhoke has confirmed that the proposal remains in its final stages. Authorities are still working on an implementation mechanism that can regulate vehicle movement without creating difficulties for passengers.
The delay comes amid continuing complaints about vehicles waiting or parking near the terminal. Such vehicles can obstruct traffic movement and affect shuttle services operating between the airport terminal and AeroMall, with the problem becoming more noticeable during busy evening and late-night periods.
The time-based system is intended to encourage drivers to arrive closer to the passenger's actual pick-up time rather than waiting near the terminal for extended periods. It is also expected to improve movement for airport buses and other vehicles using the access roads.
The issue has again come into focus as Pune Airport begins the Yatri Seva Abhiyan 2026, a 24-day passenger-focused initiative running from September 17 to October 10. The campaign covers areas such as passenger movement, accessibility, cleanliness, parking, digital services and grievance redressal.
Pune Airport has meanwhile added three more nine-seater golf carts for passenger movement between the arrival terminal and AeroMall, taking the total number of golf carts to eight. Three 35-seater buses are also available for passenger transit.
However, a firm date for implementing the proposed private-vehicle time limit has not yet been announced. Until the enforcement mechanism is finalised, passengers and motorists will have to continue using the existing traffic arrangement at the airport.