In a significant move to expedite passenger processing, the customs authority at Pune's Lohegaon Airport has officially reinstated the 'green channel' facility for arriving international travelers. This dedicated lane is designed for passengers who have no dutiable goods to declare, promising a smoother and faster exit from the airport.
What is the Green Channel and Why It Matters
The system, a standard at major international airports, simplifies the arrival process by segregating passengers. Those carrying items within the duty-free limits can now walk through the green channel without mandatory baggage scanning. Previously, the facility existed at the old terminal but was discontinued after the shift to the new terminal due to logistical constraints, including space issues. After necessary modifications, the channel is now operational again.
A senior customs officer explained the change to TOI: "We used to check practically all the arriving flyers. If not all of them, the baggage of most of them were scanned and checked. With the green channel, it won't happen." However, the officer emphasized that random checks based on profiling or specific intelligence would continue. "If there is any information about a flyer... the flyer will be stopped, checked thoroughly and questioned if necessary," the official added.
Rules, Traffic, and Smuggling Concerns
The revival of the green channel comes against the backdrop of Pune airport handling 3,38,770 international passengers in 2025, a sharp rise from 2,05,460 in 2024. The airport currently hosts five direct international flights to Dubai, Bangkok, and Abu Dhabi, operated by IndiGo, SpiceJet, and Air India Express.
Officials also reiterated customs regulations, particularly for gold. "As per regulations on gold, people coming back after very short to short visits are not allowed to carry any gold," an official stated. Female passengers returning after a stay of six months or more can carry up to 40 grams of gold jewellery, while the limit for men is 20 grams. Any amount above this must be declared, and applicable duties must be paid.
This measure is also seen as a strategic move to streamline resources amidst ongoing smuggling attempts. Pune airport has recorded cases involving gold, fake currency, and more recently, hydroponic weed and exotic animals.
Passenger and Operational Benefits
Frequent flyers have welcomed the decision. Satyajeet Singh, a businessman from Koregaon Park, said, "It will definitely help. Presently, it takes a lot of time for flyers to pass customs... This will help in reducing the wait."
The efficiency gain extends beyond passengers to airport operations. An airline source highlighted a critical bottleneck: "Generally, until the immigration and customs clearance of all flyers gets completed, the aircraft has to remain parked in the bay. Even the garbage cannot be cleared from the aircraft. With the airport having limited bays, the long wait has resulted in issues." Faster clearance through the green channel is expected to reduce aircraft turnaround time, alleviating pressure on the limited parking bays and helping maintain flight schedules.
