Traders and logistics experts have told airport officials to push airlines flying through the city to carry more cargo, claiming that this traffic is mediocre here compared to other airports.
The move follows reports of international cargo imports expected to soon start at Pune airport for the first time via the transshipment facility.
We have all the facilities in place for cargo imports and our infrastructure is at par with others. The online system is in place for all documentation related to international import-export.”
At present, the airport has been recording cargo exports since the start of the year, but not imports.
A trader, requesting anonymity, said the recent suspension of a Pune-Mumbai direct flight is another cause of concern. “With Air India in talks with the airport authorities as they say, this flight could have made a big difference. Pune has one of the top 10 busiest airports in the country. Authorities need to address why they aren’t focusing on cargo movements?” he said.
Dhoke clarified that in six to eight months, a 15-acre plot in front of the AeroMall will be in the possession of the AAI to then come up with a full-fledged cargo terminal.