Pune Airport Operations Resume After Runway Blockage, Thousands Affected

Flight operations at Pune Airport began returning to normal on Saturday morning after a late-night runway blockage caused by an Indian Air Force aircraft incident. The disruption, which began around 10:25 pm on Friday, led to widespread cancellations, delays, and diversions, impacting thousands of passengers and crowding terminals overnight.

According to officials, departures resumed from 7:30 am, followed by arrivals at 8:00 am. Authorities said services would stabilise gradually through the day, although some residual delays were expected as airlines worked to realign schedules and aircraft positions.

Dozens of Flights Cancelled Across Airlines

The closure had a significant impact on operations, with at least 43 arrivals and 48 departures cancelled. IndiGo was the worst affected, cancelling 31 arrivals and 34 departures. Air India cancelled six flights (three arrivals and three departures), while SpiceJet, Akasa Air, and Air India Express also reported multiple cancellations.

Airlines attempted to accommodate passengers on alternate flights, but limited seat availability made recovery slower.

Flights Diverted to Mumbai, Goa, Surat

Several incoming flights were diverted overnight to nearby airports, including Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport, Goa International Airport, and Surat Airport. Others faced extended delays both in the air and on the ground.

Officials noted that even after reopening, clearing the backlog would take time due to displaced aircraft and crew.

IAF Aircraft Incident Triggered Disruption

The disruption was caused by an Indian Air Force aircraft that suffered an undercarriage failure while landing, leaving it stranded on the runway. The runway remained blocked for nearly four to five hours as teams worked to remove the aircraft and ensure safety.

Authorities confirmed that all crew members were safe and that standard safety protocols were followed before reopening the runway for civil use.

Operations Under Close Monitoring

Officials said repair work was completed on priority, allowing phased resumption of services. Airport authorities and airlines continue to monitor operations closely as schedules stabilise.

While normalcy is returning, passengers have been advised to check flight status before heading to the airport, as some delays may persist through the day.