Category Archives: Aviation

Ramesh Mamidala, Head – Cargo, Air India says – “There have been issues like shortage of capacity during peak season and as an airline that’s one challenge which we face at airports. Capacity expansion is must especially now when the volumes have witnessed substantial growth as compared to last year. During peak seasons, cargo volumes increase notably. I think the capacity expansion is very important. It can be improved by making the process efficient. Regulatory checks, customs clearances, etc, need to become more efficient to process cargo much faster, quicker, and create more capacity. We need to make India a transshipment hub and for that it’s important.”

Arun Chandra, Vice President- Aviation Business, BIAL says, “I feel technology is the only solution which can help in reducing congestion at the airports during the peak hours. Building more capacity at the terminals in terms of brick and mortar is easy but is that the way forward or should we improvise on the processes and use tech tools which help us manage better. There are enough AI tools available with predictive analytics which helps us forecast the demand and helps us to allocate resources for a data driven manner as well. The stakeholders must realize that each of us has a goal to play when we try to have the entire supply chain processes executed. It cannot be a work in silos. It cannot be a work where we are trying to only think of our own part of the process. We all must stitch together the entire story and take it forward.”

With an aim to bolster the trade relations between India and Azerbaijan, The Air Cargo Agents Association of India’s (ACAAI) is hosting its 48th annual convention in Baku, Azerbaijan. The inaugural ceremony began with welcome address by Manoj Kumar Jain, Convention Chairman, followed by the presidential address by C K Govil, President, ACAAI. HE Sridharan Madhsudhan, Indian Ambassador to Azerbaijan and Piyush Shrivastava, Senior Economic Advisor, MoCA, were the Guest of Honors for the evening. Samir Gogia from Deloitte delivered the keynote address and vote of thanks was given by Dinesh Krishnan, Convention Co-Chairman. ACAAI members also released Convention Souvenir 2024. The three-day event scheduled to be held from Dec 5th-8th will also have insightful panel discussions on various topics such as infrastructure upgradation, digitalisation, sustainability, cyber-security and lot more. The global industry stalwarts participated in the inaugural ceremony.

Talking about major highlights of the convention, C K Govil shares, “The convention will focus on the evolving landscape of the logistics and air cargo industry. Sessions will focus on the latest technological advancements such as AI, blockchain, automation, and IoT. With increasing emphasis on sustainability, discussions around eco-friendly logistics practices, reducing carbon footprints, and adopting sustainable supply chain models will be a significant part of the convention. This will include the integration of green technologies, such as electric vehicles for last-mile delivery and carbon-neutral initiatives for air cargo. Experts will also delve into the strategies needed to build flexible and adaptive supply chains, capable of withstanding disruptions like geopolitical conflicts, trade restrictions, and fluctuating demand. Focus will be on India’s growing stature in the global logistics network. This will include discussions on enhancing air cargo capacity, export-import dynamics, and how Indian players can further integrate into the global logistics ecosystem. With the explosive growth of e-commerce, sessions dedicated to optimizing last-mile delivery, using technology to streamline processes, and exploring new business models to meet the demands of rapid deliveries will be another highlight. Regulatory frameworks and policies that impact logistics, trade, and air cargo will be addressed, with a focus on simplifying procedures, improving cross-border trade, and advocating for industry-friendly policies. The convention will offer ample networking opportunities for stakeholders to forge partnerships, collaborate on new ventures, and exchange ideas. This includes special events and roundtable discussions that foster industry collaboration. Given the convention’s location in Baku, there will likely be sessions highlighting Azerbaijan and other emerging markets in Central Asia as new trade hubs, emphasizing the role of logistics in connecting these markets with India and the rest …

The International Air Transport Association (IATA) released data for October 2024 global air cargo markets.  The demand growth measured in CTKs (cargo tonne-kilometers) grew by 9.8 per cent in October 2024, in comparison to the corresponding period of 2023. This is the 15th month of consecutive growth for the global air cargo sector. The ACTKs (available cargo tonne-kilometers) levels rose by 5.9 per cent YoY during the same period. “Air cargo markets continued their strong performance in October, with demand rising 9.8% year-on-year and capacity up 5.9%. Global air cargo yields (including surcharges) continue to rise, up 10.6% on 2023 and 49% on 2019 levels. While 2024 is shaping up to be a banner year for air cargo, we must look to 2025 with some caution. The incoming Trump Administration’s announced intention to impose significant tariffs on its top trading partners—Canada, China and Mexico—has the potential to upend global supply chains and undermine consumer confidence. The air cargo industry’s proven adaptability to rapidly evolving geopolitical and economic situations is likely to be tested as the Trump agenda unfolds,” Willie Walsh, Director General, IATA, said.  

The much awaited, and India’s biggest Air Cargo Agents Association of India’s (ACAAI) 48th annual convention kicks off today in Baku, Azerbaijan. The inaugural ceremony will begin with welcome address by Manoj Kumar Jain, Convention Chairman, followed by the presidential address by C K Govil, President, ACAAI. HE Sridharan Madhsudhan, Indian Ambassador to Azerbaijan and Piyush Shrivastava, Senior Economic Advisor, MoCA, have been invited as the Guest of Honors for the evening. Samir Gogia from Deloitte will deliver the keynote address and vote of thanks will be given by Dinesh Krishnan, Convention Co-Chairman. ACAAI members will also be releasing Convention Souvenir 2024. The event scheduled to be held from Dec 5th-8th will also have insightful panel discussions on various topics such as infrastructure upgradation, digitalisation, sustainability, cyber-security and lot more. The event will have experts participating from all across the globe.

Kamal Jain, Director, Cargomen Logistics says, “Free Trade Agreement (FTA) shipments shipped by air cargo are given priority in customs clearance due to their time-sensitive nature, promoting seamless trade under FTAs. Air cargo often involves high-value, urgent, or perishable goods where delays can lead to significant losses. Prioritising these shipments aligns with trade facilitation goals, reduces supply chain disruptions, and enhances economic competitiveness. Faster customs clearances encourage businesses to leverage FTAs, boosts trade between partner countries, and supports strategic sectors like high-tech and pharmaceuticals. Faster clearance minimises congestion at airports, improves cargo flow, and strengthens international trade relations by fostering smoother and more efficient customs processes.”

Satish Lakkaraju, CEO, NexGen Logistics, Garudavega says, “FTA ensures trading of certain commodities which is beneficial for countries with surplus and this increases the trade between the country. It is not important that air cargo is given priority as once 2 countries decide to increase trade and FTA there will be certain goods that would only go by Air. Commodities like Perishable, High Tech and Automotive pharma etc. this commodities specifically should be given priority in the FTA and the overall trade between the countries will grow. Resulting in increase of air Cargo.”

Cyrus Katgara, Partner, Jeena & Company says, “The primary objective of FTAs is to ensure seamless cross-border trade eliminating the setbacks such as duties and trade barriers. As air cargo plays a pivotal role in the movement of goods across borders, prioritising air cargo in FTAs is of paramount importance. Any kind of bottlenecks existing in the current air cargo landscape that are posing as hindrances could be dealt with upon prioritizing the discussions on air cargo in FTAs. The more it is talked about, the more viable solutions are expected to surface. The government needs to promote air cargo as a product in the FTAs and strive for unrestricted skies policy which has the potential to leave a positive impact on cross-border trade. Currently, the dependence on ocean cargo with respect to the Indian EXIM trade is way more than that on air cargo. There are countries who have been immensely benefited by introducing air cargo in their FTAs. It won’t be incorrect to predict that if India walks the same path, it will not only give a great boost to the country’s EXIM trade but also increase investments and participation. Prioritising air cargo in FTAs implies promotion of the product at a global pedestal, igniting more discussions around it and ultimately, driving more foreign investments and participation from global players. Furthermore, when the sector is prioritised, a lot of roadblocks are most likely to get the attention of the concerned bodies and banished with time leading to an improvement of the sector and fostered EXIM trade.

Keku Bomi Gazder, MD and CEO, Aviapro Logistic Services says, “Air cargo should indeed be considered a priority in Free Trade Agreements (FTAs). Prioritising air cargo in FTAs can have a significant positive impact on cross-border trade for several reasons. Firstly, air cargo offers unmatched speed and efficiency in transporting goods, reducing lead times, and allowing for quicker delivery of products. This efficiency can lead to a boost in trade activities. It enhances accessibility to a wider range of markets, making it easier for businesses to engage in international trade and reach consumers globally. Secondly, Air cargo is particularly crucial for perishable and high-value goods that require swift transportation to maintain quality and value. Prioritising air cargo can open opportunities in sectors such as agriculture and electronics. Including provisions related to air cargo in FTAs can help reduce trade barriers, such as customs delays and bureaucratic procedures, further facilitating trade. Therefore Yes, prioritising air cargo in FTAs can streamline cross-border trade, boost economic activities, and help nations fully harness the benefits of international commerce. Prioritising air cargo in FTAs can offer several advantages to India’s EXIM (Export-Import) trade, investments, and participation in global markets. India’s exports, especially in sectors like pharmaceuticals, textiles, and electronics, can benefit from quicker and more reliable transportation through air cargo. This can open new markets and increase export volumes. A robust air cargo infrastructure can make India more attractive to foreign investors looking to establish supply chains or manufacturing operations in the country. It enhances India’s position as a favourable investment destination. Participation in global value chains becomes more accessible when there’s efficient air cargo connectivity. Indian businesses can become integral parts of international production …