Solapur’s Skyline Revolution: Boarding Pass for Mumbai and Bengaluru Dreams from October 15

Solapur, the historic city in southern Maharashtra, is set for a transformative leap in connectivity as direct passenger flights to Mumbai and Bengaluru will commence on October 15, 2025. The long-awaited service, announced by Union Minister of State for Civil Aviation and Cooperation Murlidhar Mohol, marks a crucial milestone for Solapur’s transport infrastructure, promising convenience, faster travel, and opportunities for business and tourism across the region.

 

Key Details of the New Flights

Launch, Frequency, and Timings

Regular passenger flights from Solapur Airport to Mumbai and Bengaluru will begin from October 15, fulfilling a long-standing demand from local residents, traders, and frequent travelers.

 

Bookings for the new routes open on September 20, allowing ample time for advanced planning ahead of the festive travel rush.

 

Flights will operate four days a week: Tuesday, Wednesday, Friday, and Saturday.

 

Departure schedules:

Strategic, Economic, and Social Impact

Solapur’s new air links coincide with the auspicious festival of Navratri, timed to connect the city more closely with two of India’s most vital urban hubs—Mumbai, Maharashtra’s financial capital, and Bengaluru, South India’s technology and industry powerhouse.

 

The service will make travel for traders, entrepreneurs, students, pilgrims, and tourists faster and hassle-free, replacing arduous rail and road journeys with swift air transport.

 

Chief Minister Devendra Fadnavis gave crucial backing by approving Viability Gap Funding (VGF), making the Mumbai route commercially feasible for the operating carrier (Star Air).

 

Solapur’s upgraded connectivity is expected to spur local investment, create new jobs, and boost tourism—fulfilling Solapur’s ambitions to play a bigger part in the “Developed India” vision championed by Prime Minister Modi.

 

The air service will also facilitate easier pilgrimages—Solapur is home to celebrated religious sites—opening further opportunities for faith-driven and cultural tourism.

 

Local Voices and Official Responses

Union Minister Mohol stated, “Connecting Solapur directly with Mumbai and Bengaluru was the need of the hour. These flights will strengthen Solapur’s role in Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s vision for a Developed India, reducing travel time and boosting jobs, investment, and tourism.”

 

Civic leaders, traders, and travel industry insiders have applauded the move, with local MLAs and district officials highlighting their efforts in making the new flight routes a reality.

 

Infrastructure Upgrades and Broader Connectivity

Solapur Airport underwent a ₹60 crore renovation, completed and inaugurated in September 2024; its only previous flight route was to Goa, operated by Fly91.

 

With these latest additions, Maharashtra now boasts an expanding, more integrated aviation network, supporting regional growth and accessibility.

 

Conclusion

The direct flights from Solapur to Mumbai and Bengaluru will open a new chapter for the city, catalyzing economic growth, improving quality of life, and offering Solapur a well-deserved spot on the map of India’s aviation revolution. As flight bookings open and inaugural trips approach, the excitement among Solapur residents signals the beginning of a new era in the region’s connectivity and prosperity.

 

Sources: Hindustan Times, Indian Express, Times of India, UNI News,  Free Press Journal, Pune Pulse