Maharashtra’s first heliport will be developed at the Hadapsar Gliding Centre in Pune, alongside a world-class aviation gallery. Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation Murlidhar Mohol confirmed that the gliding centre, which spans 230 acres, is being transferred from the Directorate General of Civil Aviation to the Airports Authority of India.

Once the transfer is complete, a detailed project report will be prepared. The land will be leased for 99  years at a nominal rate of Rs one annually. The heliport aims to boost helicopter-based services for tourism, business, emergency response, and medical transport in western Maharashtra.

Pune holds the country’s largest helicopter fleet, driven by regional tourism and commercial demand. Mohol also announced plans to develop an aviation gallery at the site, which will feature simulators, historical aircraft information, and interactive digital displays.

The heliport is expected to significantly improve regional civil aviation infrastructure. A second location for another heliport in Pune district is being identified. The project remains under consideration, with no formal proposal submitted yet.

Source
The Indian Express