Pune: The Maharashtra Airport Development Company Limited (MADC) is exploring the possibility of using the technical expertise of the Singapore-based Changi Airports International (CAI) to develop three MADC-managed airports, including the proposed new airport for Pune at Purandar A Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) between MADC and CAI — focused on collaboration — has been in place since September last year.See Ngee Muoy, the spokesperson for Changi Airports International told TOI that talks between both the parties on this matter have been on.“Changi Airports International and the Maharashtra Airport Development Company signed an MoU on September 29 to promote mutual collaboration in the area of civil aviation. Discussions to extend technical advisory services by Changi Airports International to Maharashtra Airport Development Company are still in progress,” Ngee Muoy said in a written response to a TOI query.MADC officials, meanwhile, said assistance and guidance from CAI were expected to be sought in matters related to the proposed Purandar airport project.“We are exploring ways to move ahead. About the new Pune airport project, phases of construction can definitely use CAI help. Also, as said earlier, with Dorsch preparing the Detailed Project Report (DPR) — a process expected to be completed by April this year — CAI could be asked to help plan the project’s stages,” said Suresh Kakani, the vice-chairman-cum-managing director of MADC.The Maharashtra Airport Development Company had already said that the Purandar airport would be developed in stages.“They (Changi Airports International) have the required expertise and the know-how when it comes to the setting up of an airport. Singapore’s Changi International Airport is the biggest example. The Purandar project involves the construction of an airport with twin runways, apart from an integrated cargo hub. The CAI can assist MADC in several key areas. For instance, it can help decide if both the runways can come up simultaneously or if the airport can start with a single runway first,” another official said.But with the MoU calling for the development and expansion of three MADC-managed airports, officials said they were seeking Changi Airports International’s expertise for projects in Nagpur and Shirdi as well.“It is too early to reveal the details, as the bidding process for the Nagpur project is in progress. And Shirdi operations have started as well. But the state government is looking forward to expanding these two airports. Shirdi has potential and it can become one of the most important airports for the state in terms of revenue. Therefore, we will surely coordinate with the CAI to develop facilities at the Shirdi airport. Meanwhile, the Nagpur airport is set to be developed into a multi-modal international passenger and cargo hub. Guidance from the Changi Airports International will be sought for this installation as well,” the official added.

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