PUNE— Lufthansa (LH) has expressed interest in restoring direct services from Pune Airport (PNQ) if infrastructure upgrades and market conditions support long-haul operations.
The German carrier said it remains open to expanding its Indian network through nonstop flights or in partnership with Air India (AI), underscoring the country’s importance as its second-largest premium market worldwide.
The airline currently operates more than 80 weekly flights between India and Germany, but Pune has remained absent from its network since 2019.
The possibility of a return has gained attention as authorities accelerate the airport’s expansion, including a planned runway extension designed to accommodate larger aircraft capable of operating nonstop international routes.
Lufthansa Eyes Pune Flight Return
Lufthansa’s Asia Pacific and Middle East communications leadership said the airline continuously evaluates opportunities to expand in India whenever commercial and operational conditions justify new services.
The carrier added that direct operations or partnerships with Air India remain possible options as demand evolves.
The airline previously linked Pune with Frankfurt Airport (FRA) through six weekly flights launched in 2008 using a smaller aircraft operated by PrivatAir.
The route ended in early 2019 after PrivatAir became insolvent, while Pune Airport’s relatively short runway also limited future long-haul operations.
Since suspending the service, Lufthansa has continued expanding elsewhere in India by increasing frequencies from major gateways, reflecting sustained demand for business and premium travel.
The airline continues to strengthen connectivity between India and Germany through its existing network.
Runway Expansion Plans Gain Momentum
The proposed airport expansion represents the biggest factor supporting a potential return of nonstop European flights.
Authorities plan to acquire around 300 acres for the broader development project, while the runway itself is expected to be extended by approximately 800 meters.
Officials recently confirmed that land acquisition is being fast-tracked.
The project includes extending the existing 2,540-meter runway by 500 meters on the eastern side and another 300 meters on the western side, enabling operations by larger widebody aircraft used on long-haul international services.
Government representatives also indicated that key land transfers required for the expansion are progressing, with major acquisition activities expected to move forward in the coming months.
Airport traffic continues to grow, with Pune recently recording more than 213 aircraft movements in a single day, highlighting rising demand for additional capacity, TOI reported.
Europe Connectivity Benefits for Pune Growth
Industry experts believe restoring direct links between Pune and Europe would significantly improve travel for business passengers, students, and the city’s large international community.
Pune serves as one of India’s leading centers for information technology, automobile manufacturing, pharmaceuticals, education, and engineering, creating strong demand for faster overseas connections.
At present, many travelers must begin their journeys through Mumbai, Delhi, Bengaluru, Hyderabad, or Middle Eastern hubs before reaching Europe or North America.
Direct long-haul flights could reduce travel time, lower connection risks, and strengthen Pune’s competitiveness as a global business destination.
Business leaders have also emphasized that improved international connectivity would support investment, tourism, healthcare, research, and academic collaboration while enhancing the city’s attractiveness for multinational companies.
If runway expansion proceeds as planned and market demand remains strong, Lufthansa could once again consider Pune as part of its long-haul India strategy.
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