Pune-Varanasi Direct Flights Resume After 112 Days; SpiceJet Restarts Service, Boosts Air Connectivity
SpiceJet resumed direct Pune-Varanasi flights on October 18, 2026, after a 112-day suspension. The first flight carried 165 passengers from Pune to Varanasi, while 85 passengers travelled on the return journey. The service provides an additional travel option alongside IndiGo and is expected to benefit students, professionals, business travellers and tourists.
Pune, October 19, 2026: SpiceJet has resumed its direct flight operations between Pune and Varanasi after a gap of 112 days, providing passengers with an additional travel option between Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh. The service restarted on Sunday, October 18, alongside IndiGo's existing direct flights on the route.
The resumption is expected to benefit students, business travellers, working professionals and tourists who frequently travel between the two cities.
First Flight Carries 165 Passengers From Pune
According to airport officials, SpiceJet flight SG-525 arrived at Varanasi's Lal Bahadur Shastri International Airport from Pune at 3:44 pm on Sunday, carrying 165 passengers.
The same aircraft operated the return flight, SG-526, departing from Varanasi for Pune at 4:20 pm with 85 passengers on board.
The successful resumption of operations marks SpiceJet's return to the route after nearly four months.
Why Were SpiceJet Flights Suspended?
SpiceJet had temporarily suspended all its regular flight operations from Varanasi airport on June 25, 2026.
Rising operational expenses and increasing aviation turbine fuel (ATF) prices were cited as the primary reasons behind the suspension.
Higher fuel costs can significantly affect airline operations, particularly on domestic routes where profitability depends on passenger demand and operating expenses.
Major Relief for Students, Professionals and Tourists
The restoration of direct flights is expected to improve travel convenience for passengers commuting between Pune and Varanasi.
Pune is a major educational, industrial and IT hub, while Varanasi attracts visitors for religious tourism, education and business.
With SpiceJet restarting its service, passengers will have an additional airline option alongside IndiGo, offering greater flexibility when planning their journeys.
The development strengthens direct air connectivity between Maharashtra and Uttar Pradesh, although flight availability and fares will depend on airline schedules and demand.