Find cheap flights to Pune (PNQ) from Washington D.C., Northern Virginia, and Maryland. FlyToDash AI compares fares from IAD, DCA, and BWI instantly to help you save.
Pune (PNQ) is one of India’s top technology and education hubs, home to major IT parks, universities, research centers, and corporate offices. Because Pune Airport has limited international capacity, most long-haul travelers from Washington DC fly with 1-stop Middle Eastern carriers or route through Mumbai with a short domestic connection. FlyToDash AI compares fares from IAD, DCA, and BWI instantly to help you find the cheapest and fastest itineraries to Pune.
Pune Airport handles mainly domestic and regional routes, so long-haul passengers typically use these airlines:
Because Pune Airport cannot handle many widebody aircraft, most international arrivals involve a domestic transfer from Mumbai or Delhi. This is extremely common among U.S.–India travelers.
Here are average round-trip prices from the Washington DC metro area:
Prices are influenced by India's academic calendar, since Pune is a major student destination (Symbiosis, COEP, Savitribai Phule University, etc.), causing seasonal spikes in July–August and December–January.
Pune fares follow a different pattern compared to typical India routes due to student and tech-sector traffic.
Expensive periods include:
Total journey duration varies widely depending on whether your itinerary includes a domestic connection:
Many travelers choose to fly into Mumbai (BOM) instead and take:
This is often cheaper and more reliable than waiting for limited PNQ connections.
Pune International Airport is relatively small compared to other major Indian airports.
Because of these constraints, Mumbai is often used as the primary alternative airport for Pune travelers.
FlyToDash AI automatically compares DC-area airports, connection hubs, and prices across dozens of airlines to help you find the cheapest way to reach Pune — whether through PNQ directly or via Mumbai.
Traveling to Pune, India? This FAQ covers visa requirements, nearby airports, flight connections, best travel months, and useful arrival tips for planning your trip smoothly.
Yes. U.S. citizens must obtain a visa before traveling to India, including for visits to Pune. Most travelers apply online for an Indian e-Visa prior to departure. Your passport should be valid for at least six months beyond your arrival date. Always confirm current rules here: India Travel Information – U.S. Department of State
Pune is served by Pune International Airport (PNQ), which mainly handles domestic flights. Most international travelers arrive first in Mumbai (BOM) and then take a short domestic flight or drive about 3–4 hours to Pune.
Flights are often cheapest during April–June and September, when tourism demand is lower and monsoon season begins. Prices usually increase from December through February when weather is most comfortable for travel.
There are currently no nonstop international flights from the U.S. to Pune. Most travelers fly into Mumbai or Delhi first and then connect domestically to Pune. This routing is usually the fastest and most affordable.
Total travel time typically ranges from 18 to 24 hours, depending on your U.S. departure city, international layover, and domestic connection in India.
Pune is known as a major IT, education, and business hub with a pleasant climate compared to many Indian cities. It also offers historic forts, cultural attractions, and easy access to hill stations like Lonavala and Mahabaleshwar.
Taxis and ride-hailing apps are the most common transportation options. Travel time usually ranges from 20–60 minutes depending on traffic and your destination within Pune.
Booking about 3–5 months in advance usually offers the best fares. For winter travel and holiday seasons, earlier booking is recommended as prices rise quickly.
Bring your passport, approved visa or e-Visa confirmation, return flight ticket, and hotel or host address details. Immigration officers may ask about your trip duration and purpose.
Flying into Mumbai first often lowers overall costs, traveling outside peak winter months saves significantly, and flexible date searches with fare alerts help uncover cheaper options.