Category Archives: Aviation

Abhishek Goyal, CEO& ED, Aeroprime Group said, “Emerging markets present tremendous opportunities but also come with unique regulatory and operational complexities. In India, taxation, licensing and evolving aviation and air cargo policies can be challenging. Southeast Asia’s diversity means that each market comes with its own regulatory framework, requiring highly tailored approaches. Africa, while full of promise with its expanding trade lanes, continues to face challenges such as infrastructure bottlenecks, limited digital penetration and currency convertibility issues. For GSSAs, the key is to remain compliant, build strong local networks and adapt flexibly to these conditions while still delivering globally consistent service quality for their airline partners. It is equally important to build a strong pipeline that ensures smooth cargo flow, maintain market presence and visibility and establish stable operations backed by exceptional customer service.”

The Association of Multimodal Transport Operators of India (AMTOI) held its’ managing committee meeting at Kolkata hosted by Eastern Region Chapter (ERC) followed by its annual seminar on logistics. Suresh Kumar Rekhawat, Vice President & International Logistics Head at PCBL Chemicals Ltd graced the occasion as the chief Guest. He spoke at length about Amrit Kal vision and how India is on its way to become third largest economy even with USA tariffs. He appreciated the yeoman service that the freight forwarders are doing and informed the house that they must be treated as partners in growth. Subhojit Roy, Advocate and Partner Victor Moses & Co, was invited as the Guest of Honour. He said, “Laws must be well-understood and should never be assumed or taken for granted. He gave an insiders’ view on the application of various laws. Arun Kumar, President, AMTOI said, “AMTOI remains in touch with the policy makers and on matters relating to multi-modalism, it forwards its suggestion to them in timely manner. AMTOI actively assists in MTO registration and renewal and has a grievance redressal cell.” He further informed that the house as AMTOI has a say in drafting maritime related laws and they have been writing to GST council and have taken up matter relating to Sea Cargo Manifest and Transhipment Regulations (SCMTR).” Brij Lakhotia, Convenor ERC said, “Eastern Region holds a place of great strategic importance in our nation’s logistics and supply chain landscape. With its unique geographical position, rich natural resources, vibrant trade routes and access to both domestic hinterlands and international markets through ports like Kolkata, Haldia, Paradip and Vizag the East is emerging as a logistics hub of the future.” …

  Sunil Kohli, MD, Rahat Cargo said, “The long awaited rationalisation of GST components has finally come through thereby providing considerable relief to the domestic consumers. The reduced GST rate bracket slabs will expectedly bring cheers to the local manufacturers, retailers and the general public. However, the cargo trade fraternity, which has already been reeling under the punitive tariff imposition by the president Trump, has not been provided with any relief in the current GST @ 18% being charged on the airfreight and the related clearance functions. Needless to mention, the GST being a considerable amount adds to the overall cost of the product being exported thus resulting into an inflated price to the buyers abroad. Resultantly our competitors from other countries derive an edge over our shippers. The government therefore must review the said issue and consider either elimination of the GST components on exports or considerably lowering the tax slab.”

  Kapil Makhija, MD & CEO, Unicommerce said, “GST 2.0 introduces important simplifications in India’s tax system that could positively impact the e-commerce sector. By reducing tax slabs and rates on essentials and consumer durables, it can help make products more affordable and encourage greater participation in digital commerce. The reform streamlines compliance, easing operational challenges for sellers and supporting market expansion. It is also expected to benefit e-commerce exports, as simplified tax structures and reduced compliance complexities can enhance competitiveness of Indian products in global markets and fuel cross-border trade. As these changes take effect during the festive season, they are expected to boost consumer spending and increase affordability, creating new opportunities for businesses and consumers alike.”    

The Yamuna Expressway Industrial Development Authority (YEIDA) has approved the development of a logistics and warehousing hub inSector 8-F, close to the upcoming Noida International Airport in Jewar, at a recent board meeting, said reports. Officials said they expect a sharp rise in demand for cargo handling once the airport becomes operational later this year.

Fletcher Samuel, Assistant General Manager and Senior Lead for Cargo Business at Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), was felicitated with the DDP Face of the Future Award. At BIAL, he plays a pivotal role in driving strategic initiatives and fostering innovation in air cargo operations. With a focus on efficiency and collaborative partnerships, Fletcher has successfully led key projects that have enhanced cargo movement and strengthened infrastructure at Kempegowda airport. In addition to his role at BIAL, Fletcher serves as the Chairman of the ACFI-BLR Chapter, actively contributing to industry-wide dialogue and development. His diverse global experience across major logistics hubs, including Singapore, Hong Kong, Guangzhou, Mumbai, Delhi, and Hyderabad, brings a unique perspective on cargo operations and airport logistics, further strengthening his leadership.    

Reshma Zaheer, Chief Operating Officer, TT Logistics & Cargo, was felicitated with the DDP Game Changer of the Year Award. With over three decades of experience in the air cargo industry, Zaheer combines deep expertise with a forward-looking leadership approach. As COO of TT Logistics for the past 15 years, she has been pivotal in expanding the company’s GSSA operations and in establishing global capability centres that create long-term strategic value for partners and customers.

Vikramjit Singh Ahluwalia, Managing Director, Air Logistics Group India, was presented the DDP Trailblazer Award at the India Cargo Awards 2025. Having over three decades of experience in global aviation cargo and logistics, Ahluwalia is widely recognised for his vision and execution. He has been instrumental in launching and establishing operations for leading global carriers, including BMI Cargo, Ocean Airlines, Jade Cargo International, All Nippon Airways, Garuda Indonesia, Brussels Airlines, Alitalia, American Airlines, DHL Aviation, and Sichuan Airlines across India. Under his stewardship, Air Logistics Group India has become a trusted strategic partner for global airlines, setting benchmarks in service quality, operational excellence, and customer-centric solutions. Known for his integrity, innovation, compliance, and commitment to sustainable growth, he established the company as one of the most respected names in the industry.

J. Krishnan, Partner, S. Natesa Iyer, Logistics and Past President, The Air Cargo Agents Association of India (ACAAI), entered the Gallery of Legends in recognition of his outstanding contribution and leadership in the air cargo and logistics industry.

The India Cargo Awards 2025 took place on 8 September 2025 at Le Méridien, New Delhi. Marking a significant milestone, this edition celebrated its 10th year of recognising excellence in the cargo and logistics sector. Known as the ‘Oscars of the Industry,’ the awards united leaders, innovators and stakeholders from across the cargo and logistics sector. The prestigious event celebrated excellence, resilience, innovation, honouring organisations and individuals for their contributions to the industry. Piyush Srivastava, Senior Economic Advisor, Union Ministry of Civil Aviation, was the Chief Guest, while Pankaj Kumar, Joint Secretary Logistics, DPIIT, Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry was the Guest of Honour. Jivisha Joshi Gangopadhyay, Deputy Secretary, International Cooperation, Ease of Doing Business and Salt, Sagar Kadu, Director, Logistics, DPIIT, Union Ministry of Commerce and Industry, were the other distinguished dignitaries present at at ceremony. Together with industry stalwarts, they performed the ribbon-cutting ceremony and unveiled a coffee table handbook. With categories recognising trailblazers, gamechangers and future leaders, the awards underscored the role of air cargo and logistics in driving India’s economic growth and strengthening global connectivity. The evening was a celebration of achievements and an inspiration for the industry’s next chapter of progress.