Maharashtra Government Approves New Name of Pune Airport to Honor Sant Tukaram Maharaj

Maharashtra: Pune’s Lohegaon airport is set to undergo a name change, honoring one of Maharashtra’s most revered spiritual figures. The Maharashtra government has officially approved renaming the airport to Jagadguru Sant Tukaram Maharaj International Airport, as announced by Chief Minister Eknath Shinde on Monday.

This move reflects the state’s desire to pay tribute to Sant Tukaram, a prominent saint and poet from the Bhakti movement, who holds deep cultural and spiritual significance for the region.

The proposal to rename the airport was initially put forward by Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation, Murlidhar Mohol, who hails from Pune. The decision, made during a state cabinet meeting, will now be forwarded to the central government for further approval. According to Mohol, this renaming is not only symbolic but also meaningful, as Sant Tukaram was born and raised in Lohegaon, the same area where the Pune airport is located.

Chief Minister Shinde shared the news on social media platform X, expressing pride in the cabinet’s approval of this historic decision. The proposal, strongly supported by the Warkari community—followers of Sant Tukaram’s teachings—reflects widespread local sentiment.

In addition to the airport renaming, the state cabinet also passed other important measures, including the approval of a Guaranteed Progression Scheme for Children’s Homes Observatory staff, adding Kunbi sub-castes to the OBC list, and plans for a new Greenfield Expressway from Shirur to Chhatrapati Sambhajinagar.

Once the central government gives its nod, Pune’s airport will stand as a monument to Sant Tukaram Maharaj’s enduring legacy.

If you’re planning a trip from Pune Airport, check out more information on Pune airport parking and Pune airport lounge services to make your journey smoother.

Best Airport Guide – Travel News Desk

In a recent update from HDFC Bank, holders of the Regalia Forex Plus Card will experience changes in their lounge access benefits starting September 1, 2024. This change impacts the number of complimentary lounge visits cardholders can enjoy, a benefit that has been popular among frequent travellers and business professionals.

Key Update Details:

• New Policy: Effective September 1, 2024, the HDFC Bank Regalia Forex Plus Card will limit complimentary lounge access visits to one per calendar quarter.
• Affected Cards: This update specifically affects cardholders with cards ending in XX1350.

Impact on Travellers:

This change is likely to impact the travel plans of many cardholders who rely on lounge access for comfort during layovers and before flights. The reduction to one visit per quarter means that travelers will need to plan their lounge usage more strategically.

What This Means for You

• Quarterly Access: You will now have one complimentary lounge visit per calendar quarter.
• Plan Ahead: With the new limitation, planning your lounge visits during your travels will be crucial to making the most of this benefit.
• Explore Alternatives: Consider other lounge access programs or memberships if you travel frequently and need more lounge visits.

Alternatives and Recommendations:

For those who require more frequent lounge access, exploring other lounge access programs or considering memberships like Priority Pass could be beneficial. Additionally, travellers might want to look into other premium credit cards that offer more generous lounge access benefits.

Here is the HTML code for a button to apply for a Priority Pass now with an affiliate link:

Customer Support:

HDFC Bank has assured customers that they are available to assist with any questions or concerns regarding this update. Cardholders can reach out to HDFC Bank through the following channels:

• Call: 1800 1600 or 1800 2600
• Email: support@hdfcbank.com

This update underscores the importance of staying informed about the benefits and limitations of your travel-related credit cards. As always, planning ahead can help ensure a smoother travel experience.

For more updates on lounge access policies, travel tips, and airport guides, visit Best Airport Guide.

This blog post is intended to inform and help travellers adjust to the new lounge access policy by HDFC Bank. Stay tuned to Best Airport Guide for the latest in travel news, updates on airport facilities, and comprehensive guides to enhance your travel experiences.

Tags: HDFC Bank, Regalia Forex Plus Card, lounge access, airport lounge offer, travel updates, frequent flyer, complimentary lounge access, Priority Pass, travel tips, best airport guide.

This summer, Plaza Premium Lounge is featuring an incredible Airport Lounge Offer to elevate your travel experience with their Mid-Year Fiesta promotion. From June 25, 2024, to August 31, 2024, you can enjoy up to 30% off on lounge access, along with complimentary access for children.

The Plaza Premium Lounge is famous for featuring world-class luxurious amenities such as gourmet dining, high-speed Wi-Fi, and comfortable seating and dining areas, meet & greet services etc. allowing you to make your travel more enjoyable and stress-free.

You can book now and experience the ultimate in airport comfort by grabbing the ongoing offer.

Why Choose Plaza Premium Lounge?

Plaza Premium Lounge is renowned for its world-class amenities and exceptional service, providing a peaceful haven in the midst of bustling airports. Whether you’re looking to relax, work, or simply escape the crowds, Plaza Premium Lounge offers the perfect environment to do so.

Key Features of Plaza Premium Lounge:

• Comfortable Seating: Relax in plush, comfortable seating away from the airport hustle.
• Delicious Cuisine: Enjoy a variety of food and beverages, catering to all tastes.
• High-Speed Wi-Fi: Stay connected with fast and reliable internet access.
• Showers and Rest Areas: Freshen up with shower facilities and designated rest areas.
• Complimentary Child Access: Make your family travel more convenient with free entry for children.

How to Avail the Plaza Premium Airport Lounge Offer

To take advantage of this fantastic offer, use code SPECIAL2024 for a 20%* discount on Plaza Premium Lounge access globally, when you book at least 3 days ahead. Smart Traveller members can enjoy a 30%* discount with this promotion. This promotion is valid until August 31, 2024, so don’t miss out on this limited-time opportunity to enhance your travel experience.

Terms and Conditions

• The offer is valid until August 31, 2024.
• Complimentary child access is included.
• To book and learn more, visit the Plaza Premium Lounge Offer Page.

Terms and conditions are subject to change at the discretion of Plaza Premium Lounge.

Book Now

Take this opportunity to enjoy the best in airport lounge comfort at a fraction of the price. Click the button below to book your Plaza Premium Lounge access now and make your travel experience truly exceptional.

Make the most of your layovers and transit time with Plaza Premium Lounge’s Mid-Year Fiesta. Happy travels!

Plaza Premium Lounge Locations

Plaza Premium Lounge locations can be found at numerous major airports worldwide. Some of the key locations include:

1. Asia Pacific

• Singapore Changi Airport (SIN)
• Kuala Lumpur International Airport (KUL)
• Langkawi Airport (LGK) 
• Penang Airport (PEN) 
• Bangkok Suvarnabhumi Airport (BKK)
• Chiang Mai Airport(CNX) 
• Phuket Airport (HKT) 
• Phnom Penh Airport (PNH) 
• Jakarta Airport (CGK) 
• Nagoya Airport (NGO) 
• Osaka Airport
• Mandalay Airport (MDL) 
• Christchurch Airport (CHC) 
• Queenstown Airport (ZQN) 
• Cebu Airport (CEB) 
• Clark Airport (CRK) 
• Manila Airport (MNL) 
• Hanoi Airport (HAN) 
• Ho Chi Minh City Airport (SGN) 
• Nha Trang (Airport CXR) 
• Busan Airport (PUS) 
• Seoul Airport (ICN/GMP) 
• Brisbane Airport (BNE)
• Melbourne Airport (MEL)
• Sydney Airport (SYD)
• Adelaide Airport (ADL)

2. Europe

• London Heathrow Airport (LHR)
• Rome Fiumicino Airport (FCO)
• Frankfurt Airport (FRA)
• Helsinki Airport (HEL)
• Copenhagen Airport (CPH)
• Budapest Airport (BUD)
• Gothenburg Airport (GOT)
• Stockholm Airport (ARN)
• Geneva Airport (GVA)
• Zurich Airport (ZRH)
• Istanbul Airport (SAW)
• Edinburgh Airport (EDI)
• Isle of Man Airport (IOM)

3. America

• Buenos Aires Airport (EZE)
• Rio de Janeiro Airport (GIG)
• São Paulo Airport (GRU)
• Edmonton Airport (YEG)
• Montreal Airport (YUL)
• Toronto Airport (YYZ)
• Vancouver Airport (YVR)
• Winnipeg Airport (YWG)
• Barranquilla Airport (BAQ)
• Bogota Airport (BOG)
• Bucaramanga Airport (BGA)
• Cartagena Airport (CTG)
• Cali Airport (CLO)
• Medellin Airport (MDE)
• San Salvador Airport (SAL)
• Cancún Airport (CUN)
• Dallas Fort Worth Airport (DFW)
• Orlando Airport (MCO)

4. India/Middle East/Africa

• Addis Ababa Airport (ADD)
• Bangalore Airport (BLR)
• Mumbai Airport (BOM)
• Amman Airport (AMM)
• Nairobi Airport (NBO)
• Muscat Airport (MCT)
• Dammam Airport (DMM)
• Jeddah Airport (JED)
• Riyadh Airport (RUH)
• Abu Dhabi Airport (AUH)
• Dubai Airport (DXB)
• Sharjah Airport (SHJ)
• Durban Airport (DUR)
• Johannesburg Airport (JNB)
• Zanzibar Airport (ZNZ)
• Harare Airport (HRE)

5. China, Hong Kong, Macau & Taiwan

• Beijing Airport (PEK/PKX)
• Changchun Airport (CGQ)
• Changsha Airport (CSX)
• Chengdu Airport (CTU/TFU)
• Chongqing Airport (CKG)
• Dalian Airport (DLC)
• Guangzhou Airport (CAN)
• Guiyang Airport (KWE)
• Jieyang Airport (SWA)
• Haikou Airport (HAK)
• Harbin Airport (HRB)
• Hefei Airport (HFE)
• Jinan Airport (TNA)
• Kunming Airport (KMG)
• Lanzhou Airport (LHW)
• Nanchang Airport (KHN)
• Nanning Airport (NNG)
• Nanjing Airport (NKG)
• Nanyang Airport (NNY)
• Qingdao Airport (TAO)
• Shanghai Airport (PVG/SHA)
• Sanya Airport (SYX)
• Shenyang Airport (SHE)
• Shenzhen Airport (SZX)
• Urumqi Airport (URC)
• Taiyuan Airport (TYN)
• Wuhan Airport (WUH)
• Xi’an Airport (XIY)
• Zhengzhou Airport (CGO)
• Wuxi Airport (WUX)
• Zhuhai Airport (ZUH)
• Hong Kong Airport (HKG)
• Macau Airport (MFM)
• Taipei Airport (TPE)

These lounges offer various amenities such as comfortable seating, high-speed Wi-Fi, complimentary food and beverages, and more, making them ideal for travelers seeking relaxation and comfort during their journeys.

Nepal: In a heartbreaking incident, a Saurya Airlines plane crashed shortly after takeoff from Kathmandu’s Tribhuvan International Airport, resulting in the loss of all 18 passengers. The flight, which was headed for Pokhara, encountered serious issues soon after departure, leading to a fatal crash.

The plane had just begun its journey when it slipped off the runway and crashed. The aircraft skidded and caught fire, producing a large plume of smoke visible from the airport. The crash occurred on 24th July 2024, around 11:15 am (0530 GMT), and immediate emergency responses were initiated.

Casualties and Rescue Efforts

The flight was carrying two pilots and 17 staff members from Saurya Airlines on a test flight. Tragically, all 18 people on board, including one female member, perished in the crash, except for the pilot who survived. The pilot is now receiving treatment at Kathmandu Medical College Hospital. Emergency services, including police and firefighters, quickly arrived at the scene and have recovered all 18 bodies.

Authorities are conducting an investigation to determine the cause of this tragic accident. Our thoughts are with the families and friends of those who lost their lives.

These top pet-friendly airports offer specialized facilities and services to ensure a comfortable journey for both you and your pets.

Top 10 Pet-Friendly Airports

Here are some of the top pet-friendly airports around the world that cater to your pets’ needs, making your travel experience smoother and more enjoyable:

1. John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York, USA

John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), features “The Ark Pet Oasis” a unique animal reception terminal with temperature-controlled zones. It features a full-service pet resort with amenities such as grooming, veterinary care, and pet travel assistance, making it one of the most pet-friendly airport terminals globally. This pet care service is located in JFK International Airport Cargo Area.

The Ark Contact:

Phone – 212-973-8275
Email – INFO@arkjfk.com

JFK Pet Relief Areas:

1. Service Animal/Pet Relief Area • Near Curbside • Level 1 • Terminal 1
2. Pet Relief Area • Level 2 • Terminal 4
3. Service Animal/Pet Relief Area • Near Gate B31 • Level 3 • Terminal 4
4. Service Animal/Pet Relief Area • Near Curbside • Level 1 • Terminal 4
5. Service Animal/Pet Relief Area • Near Curbside • Level 1 • Terminal 5
6. Service Animal/Pet Relief Area • Near Gate 28 • Level 3 • Terminal 5
7. The T5 Rooftop & Wooftop Lounge • Near Gate 28 • Level 3 • Terminal 5
8. Pet Relief Area • Level 3 • Terminal 7
9. Service Animal/Pet Relief Area • Near Curbside • Level 1 • Terminal 7
10. Service Animal/Pet Relief Area • Near Gate 38 • Level 3 • Terminal 8
11. Service Animal/Pet Relief Area • Near Curbside • Level 3 • Terminal 8

Key Features:

1. Pet Travel Services at Airports: Offers quarantine, kenneling, and veterinary services.
2. Airport Pet Care Facilities: Full-service pet reception and care.
3. Airport Pet Parks: Spacious areas for pets to play and relax.

2. Los Angeles International Airport (LAX), California, USA

Los Angeles International Airport – LAX is renowned for being one of the most pet-friendly airports, USA has to offer. The airport has multiple pet relief areas before and after security, equipped with artificial grass, fire hydrants, and waste disposal bags to make your pet’s bathroom breaks convenient.

LAX Pet Relief Areas:

1. Animal Relief Area • Post Security • Near Gate 13 • Terminal 1
2. Animal Relief Area • Pre Security • Lower Level – At westend • Terminal 1
3. Animal Relief Area • Post Security • Near Gate 21 • Terminal 2
4. Animal Relief Area • Post Security • Near Gate 33 • Terminal 2
5. Animal Relief Area • Near the entrance to the bridge to T-4 • Terminal B
6. Animal Relief Area • Near Gate 208 • Terminal B
7. Animal Relief Area • Post Security • Along the bridge to TBIT • Terminal 4
8. Animal Relief Area • Post Security • Near Gate 52B • Terminal 5
9. Animal Relief Area • Post Security • In the outdoor atrium, by the Restrooms near Gate 62 • Terminal 6
10. Animal Relief Area • Post Security • Near Gate 71A • Terminal 7

Key Features:

• Pet-Friendly Airport Amenities: Dedicated pet relief areas in each terminal.
• Pet-Friendly Airport Lounges: Some lounges inside LAX welcome pets.
• Airport Pet Transport Services: Comprehensive care and transport options for pets.
• Pet-Treats: Farmers Market in T5, to buy pet toys or flavoured treats.

3. Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport (ATL), Georgia, USA

ATL boasts a 1,000-square-foot dog park, located in the Ground Transportation area on Domestic Terminal South, outside of doors W1 and W2. This fully fenced-in park is complete with grass, benches, and waste disposal stations, making it a perfect safe zone for pets to hangout. Indoor pet relief areas are also available post-security for easy access during layovers.

Click here to see a video of the dog park.

ATL Pet Relief Areas:

Pet relief areas in Hartsfield-Jackson Atlanta International Airport – ATL are located near Gates T7, A10, B33, C17, E15, F7 as well as D-Centerpoint.

4. Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS), Netherlands

Amsterdam Airport Schiphol (AMS) offers pet-friendly services, including dedicated animal care facilities and a pet hotel – KLM’s Animal Hotel . The airport’s animal travel agency can assist with pet travel tips and arrangements to ensure a hassle-free experience.

• Pet Relief Areas: Designated indoor and outdoor spots for pets.
• Pet-Friendly Airport Lounges: Some lounges allow pets, providing a relaxing environment.

5. Calgary International Airport, Canada

Calgary International Airport (YYC) is celebrated for its exceptional pet-friendly amenities, making it a top choice for travellers with furry companions. The airport is designed to ensure pets are comfortable and well-cared for throughout their journey, with facilities and services that cater specifically to their needs.

The airport features an International Animal Lounge that provides comprehensive services to ensure the safety and comfort of pets in transit. With a team of experienced relocation specialists, YYC guarantees that pets are treated with the utmost care and professionalism, making travel as smooth as possible.

Key Features:

• International Animal Lounge Facility: Two physical locations dedicated to pet needs, plus access to satellite offices in Ottawa, Montreal, and Vancouver.
• Specialist Pet Transport Services: Expert advice, flight reservations, and safe delivery to the plane.
• Customs Clearance: Efficient customs services at multiple Canadian airports, ensuring pets meet all health and documentation requirements.
• Temperature-Controlled Pet Travel Vans: Maintaining a comfortable environment for pets during transport.
• IATA Approved Travel Containers: Properly sized and approved containers for safe pet travel.

6. Vancouver International Airport (YVR), Canada

Vancouver International Airport – YVR has designated pet comfort zones inside the terminal, ensuring your pets have a comfortable place to stretch their legs and take care of business before or after your flight.

YVR Pet Relief Areas:

1. Animal Relief Area • Pre-Security • Outside Internationals Arrivals at Chester Johnson Park Entrance
2. Animal Relief Area • Pre-Security • Outside South Terminal Building (STB) • Opposite the North Entrance
3. Animal Relief Area • Post-Security • A/B Pier • Opposite the play area, before Starbucks
4. Animal Relief Area • Post-Security • C Pier • Opposite Gate C29, right of the washrooms in the alcove
5. Animal Relief Area • Post-Security • D Pier • Opposite Gate D72
6. Animal Relief Area • Post-Security • D Pier • Near Gates 76 and 77
7. Animal Relief Area • Post-Security • D Pier • Between Gates 58 and 62
8. Animal Relief Area • Post-Security • STB • Gate G1-2, beside vending machines in the corner

7. Heathrow Airport (LHR), London, UK

Heathrow Airport (LHR) is one of the most accommodating international pet-friendly airports in Europe. It’s Animal Reception Centre offers top-notch facilities for pets traveling through the airport, including veterinary care and comfortable kennels. The airport also has pet relief areas in each terminal.

LHR Pet Relief Areas:

• Animal Relief Area • Near gate 27 • Terminal 3
• Animal Relief Area • Inside transit train station • Terminal 5

Key Features:

• Airport Pet Transport Services: Efficient and reliable services.
• Pet-Friendly Airline Services: Many airlines at Heathrow offer pet-friendly travel options.
• Pet-Friendly Airport Hotels: Conveniently located hotels that welcome pets.

8. San Francisco International Airport (SFO), California, USA

San Francisco International Airport – SFO features several pet relief areas equipped with grass, hydration stations, and waste bags. The airport’s Wag Brigade, a team of trained therapy pets(mostly dogs and a rabbit – Alex), that also helps soothe anxious passengers.

SFO Pet Relief Areas:

1. Animal Relief Area • Pre-Security • Courtyard 2, Arrivals/Baggage Claim Level • Terminal 1
2. Animal Relief Area • Pre-Security • Courtyard 4, Arrivals/Baggage Claim Level • Terminal 3
3. Animal Relief Area • Level 1 • Courtyard 2, Arrivals/Baggage Claim Level • Terminal 2
4. Animal Relief Area • Level 2 • D Gates, Retail Street • Terminal 2
5. Animal Relief Area • Post-Security • Near A Gates • International Terminal
6. Animal Relief Area • Post-Security • Near B Gates • Terminal 1
7. Animal Relief Area • Post-Security • Near Gate C5 • Terminal 1
8. Animal Relief Area • Post-Security • Near D Gates • Terminal 2
9. Animal Relief Area • Post-Security • Near F Gates at the entrance to Gates F11 – F22 • Terminal 3
10. Animal Relief Area • Level 2 • Gate B • Near Gate B6 • Harvey Milk Terminal 1
11. Animal Relief Area • Level 2 • International Terminal A
12. Animal Relief Area • Level 1 • Gates C • Between Gates C5 & C7 • Terminal 2
13. Animal Relief Area • Level 2 • Near Gate G4/G5 • International Terminal G

Key Features:

• Pet-Friendly Airport Amenities: Multiple pet relief areas.
• Airport Pet Policies: Clear and pet-friendly policies to ensure a smooth experience.
• Pet-Friendly Airport Lounges: Lounges that welcome pets.

9. Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), USA

Dallas/Fort Worth International Airport – DFW is another pet-friendly airport with excellent facilities for pets.

DFW Pet Relief Areas:

1. Animal Relief Area • Post-Security • Near Gate A29 • Terminal A
2. Animal Relief Area • Post-Security • Near Gate B28 • Terminal B
3. Animal Relief Area • Post-Security • Near Gate D18 • Terminal D
4. Animal Relief Area • Post-Security • Near Gate E31 • Terminal E
5. Animal Relief Area • Pre-Security • Near Gate A8 • Terminal A
6. Animal Relief Area • Pre-Security • Near Gate C2, C39 • Terminal C
7. Animal Relief Area • Pre-Security • Near Kerbside • Terminal C
8. Animal Relief Area • Pre-Security • Near Gate D15, D29 • Terminal D
9. Animal Relief Area • Pre-Security • Near Gate E2, E38 • Terminal E

Key Features:

• Airport Pet Parks: Large, designated pet areas.
• Pet Travel Services at Airports: Extensive support services for pet travelers.
• Airport Pet Care Facilities: On-site care and grooming services.

10. Frankfurt Airport (FRA), Germany

Frankfurt Airport (FRA) is renowned as one of the leading international pet-friendly airports, offering exceptional facilities and services to ensure that both you and your furry companions have a comfortable and stress-free travel experience. It features a special animal lounge – The Lufthansa Animal Cargo Lounge that offers a premier experience for traveling pets.

This unique facility ensures the utmost comfort, safety, and care for animals in transit. Equipped with specialized animal care facilities, expert veterinary services, and spacious housing, climate controlled chambers, aviaries, the lounge provides a stress-free environment for pets. With dedicated pet transport services and enrichment opportunities, Lufthansa ensures that every pet’s journey is as comfortable and secure as possible.

The Lufthansa Animal Cargo Lounge is the world’s busiest animal airport hub.

Key Features

• Airport Pet Parks: Large, well-maintained pet areas.
• Pet-Friendly Airline Services: Many airlines operating here provide pet-friendly options.
• Pet-Friendly Airport Hotels: Nearby hotels welcome pets, ensuring a comfortable stay.
• Animal Lounge: Climate controlled chambers with animal care facility

Tips For Flying with Pets

Flying with pets can be a smooth experience with proper preparation and planning. Here are some essential tips to ensure a comfortable journey for you and your furry friend:

1. Check Airline Policies: Different airlines have varying policies regarding pet travel. Verify the requirements and restrictions for pet carriers, pet sizes, and types of pets allowed.
2. Book Early: Airlines often have limited space for pets on each flight, so it’s important to book your pet’s spot as early as possible.
3. Visit the Vet: Schedule a veterinary check-up to ensure your pet is healthy and up-to-date on vaccinations. Obtain a health certificate if required by the airline.
4. Choose the Right Carrier: Invest in an airline-approved pet carrier that is well-ventilated, secure, and comfortable for your pet. Ensure your pet can stand, turn around, and lie down inside.
5. Acclimate Your Pet: Help your pet get used to the carrier by allowing them to spend time in it before the trip. This will reduce stress on the travel day.
6. ID Tags and Microchips: Ensure your pet has a collar with an ID tag containing your contact information. Microchipping your pet provides an extra layer of security.
7. Plan for Security Screening: Be prepared to remove your pet from the carrier at security checkpoints. Use a harness and leash to keep them secure.
8. Pack Essentials: Bring along your pet’s essentials such as food, water, bowls, medications, toys, and a leash. Include absorbent pads for the carrier in case of accidents.
9. Hydration and Feeding: Keep your pet hydrated, but avoid feeding them a large meal just before the flight to prevent motion sickness.
10. Exercise Before the Flight: Give your pet plenty of exercise before heading to the airport to help them relax and sleep during the flight.
11. Stay Calm and Positive: Your pet can pick up on your emotions. Stay calm and positive to help them feel secure.
12. Consider Sedatives Carefully: Consult with your vet about the use of sedatives. Some pets may benefit from them, but it’s important to use them only under professional guidance.
13. Know Your Destination’s Requirements: Research the pet import regulations at your destination, including quarantine requirements and necessary documentation.
14. Arrive Early: Give yourself extra time at the airport to handle any unexpected issues related to traveling with your pet.
15. Take Breaks During Layovers: If you have a layover, use the time to let your pet stretch, relieve themselves, and have a drink of water.

By following these tips, you can help ensure a safe and comfortable flight for both you and your pet.

The Pune Airport’s New Terminal goes beyond its striking architecture, cutting-edge amenities, and design that mirrors Pune’s identity—a fusion of modernity and heritage. It symbolizes a significant milestone for the entire region, poised to boost the city’s development and improve connectivity for both domestic and international travelers. As Pune solidifies its position as a vital economic center, this new terminal, coupled with the forthcoming independent civilian international airport, will herald a wave of improvements aimed at enhancing passenger convenience and efficiency.

The Pune Airport Authority of India (AAI) has announced that upon the activation of the new terminal, the existing terminal will stop operations. In its place, a series of transformative works will commence, promising a revamped experience for passengers.

One notable change is the closure of the entry gate of the old terminal, which will make way for the establishment of 15 additional ‘check-in’ counters. This expansion aims to alleviate congestion and streamline the check-in process, catering to the needs of the airport’s growing influx of travelers.

Moreover, to accommodate the evolving requirements of modern air travel, a ‘security holding area’ will be established within the new terminal. This measure seeks to enhance security protocols while ensuring passenger comfort and convenience.

According to Pune AAI officials, the new terminal boasts a total of 34 ‘check-in’ counters, strategically positioned to manage the steady flow of passengers effectively. With the addition of the new counters at the old terminal’s entry gate, the overall count will rise to 49, promising reduced wait times and smoother check-in procedures for travelers.

Commenting on the impending changes, a senior AAI official, speaking on condition of anonymity, outlined the relocation plans for various airport services and administrative offices. These moves are expected to optimize space utilization within the airport premises, paving the way for further enhancements.

The inauguration of the new terminal comes after a series of delays, with the official unveiling taking place on March 10. Currently, efforts are underway to transition services and passenger facilities to the new terminal seamlessly.

As the summer schedule approaches, these developments signal a significant leap forward in Pune Airport’s quest to provide world-class facilities and services to its passengers. The upcoming changes promise a more efficient, modern, and enjoyable travel experience for all who pass through Pune Airport’s gates.

Ahmedabad: Adani Group has embarked on a significant venture, announcing the construction of two high-end hotels at Ahmedabad Airport, also known as Sardar Vallabhbhai Patel International Airport(SVPI Airport). With an investment of Rs 1,500 crore spread over the next five years, this initiative is poised to reshape the hospitality and commercial terrain of the region. Positioned near the international terminal, these establishments aim to offer a seamless travel experience, ensuring immediate access to premium lodging options upon arrival or before departure.

The Adani Group’s entry into the hospitality business at Ahmedabad Airport or SVPI Airport marks a strategic diversification of its business interests. The Group will partner with a well-known hospitality brand, ensuring guests enjoy excellent service and amenities. Adani Group’s plan for Ahmedabad Airport goes beyond building hotels. They want to add shops, offices, and fun places, turning the airport into a lively spot for both travelers and Ahmedabad residents. By offering various facilities, they aim to create a superior experience with convenience, entertainment, and luxury all in one location.

Adani’s big project is set to help Ahmedabad a lot. Building hotels, shops, and offices will create jobs, help local businesses, and bring more visitors to the city. Also, making the airport better will let it handle more international flights, making Ahmedabad a key player in India’s aviation sector.

As the Adani Group progresses with its plans, the world’s eyes will be on Ahmedabad, witnessing its giant leap towards becoming a global travel and commerce hub. This venture not only reflects the Group’s confidence in the city’s potential but also promises to elevate the experience of every traveler passing through SVPI Airport.

Adani Airports is currently in advanced discussions with Hong Kong-based Plaza Premium Group to establish a joint venture for the operation of airport lounges throughout India, according to sources familiar with the negotiations reported to ET. The potential collaboration signifies the return of the airport hospitality services giant to the Indian market.

Plaza Premium Group had previously overseen a majority of India’s premium airport lounges, but post-2021-2022, it had to discontinue its services due to security clearance issues, as revealed by insights from airport executives.

The Adani Group views this prospective partnership as a strategic move to enhance hospitality standards at its airports, with both partners contributing to existing and upcoming lounges. Adani Airports, accounting for 25% of passenger footfalls and 33% of air cargo traffic in India, currently manages most of its lounges at airports, including prominent locations like Mumbai, Ahmedabad, Jaipur, Mangaluru, Thiruvananthapuram, Lucknow, and Guwahati. Additionally, the conglomerate is in the process of constructing India’s most expensive airport, valued at over ₹19,000 crore, on the outskirts of Mumbai.

Anticipating to engage with 400 million consumers through its airport business by 2028, Adani is strategically positioning itself in the aviation sector. Plaza Premium Group, boasting an international presence with over 250 locations at 80 airports across 30 countries, faced contract terminations in Delhi and Bengaluru in 2021 and 2022, attributed to security clearance issues. This potential collaboration could redefine the landscape of airport services, enhancing the travel experience for millions of passengers.

Automated immigration clearances are set to be introduced at New Delhi, Mumbai, and Bengaluru airports, enabling international arrivals and departures without the need for physical passport verification. The verification will be conducted using either facial recognition or fingerprints.

Last week, civil aviation minister Jyotiraditya Scindia discussed plans with the chairman of the Airport Authority of India (AAI) and chief executives of private airports. He also discussed about the feasibility of extending DigiYatra app for this purpose. At present, domestic passengers utilize the DigiYatra app for a paperless process, which helps save time. The project is managed by the Digi Yatra Foundation, a private non-profit organization jointly owned by AAI and private airports.

The CEO of DigiYatra Foundation, Suresh Khadakbhavi mentioned that testing is currently underway. The foundation aims to collaborate with Bureau of Immigration and visa-issuing agencies to enable this service for international passengers.

Benefits of e-passports

The adoption of e-passports marks a significant advancement in travel documentation, offering a range of benefits to both travelers and governments. These passports, equipped with embedded microchips containing biometric information, enhance security measures, making it more challenging for identity fraud and tampering. The incorporation of biometric data, such as fingerprints and facial recognition, ensures robust identity verification. E-passports streamline the immigration process with automated controls, reducing wait times and providing a more efficient experience for travelers. Additionally, their global interoperability fosters seamless international travel. As a symbol of modernization in passport technology, e-passports contribute to a more secure and convenient era of border management, aligning with the evolving needs of the digital age.

For first-time visitors to India, enrollment and initial immigration clearance will involve iris, facial, and fingerprint biometrics at manual counters. Departing visitors can opt for the automated clearance route. Subsequent trips with the same passport allow clearance using iris and facial biometrics at the manual counters, streamlining the process for returning travelers.

Khadakbhavi mentioned that the system will first be implemented for international passengers, extending to Indian citizens once the government issues e-passports. The innovative process aims to minimize the necessity for travelers to repeatedly present travel documents at various checkpoints, ensuring a smoother and more convenient journey.