Noida International Airport will have linkage between ICT and IWLZ, which will provide forwarders with faster cargo processing times. To further enhance cargo efficiency, the airport will utilise WMS, IATA’s freight systems in order to boost operations, says Nitin Mittal, Head, Cargo, NIA.
Ritika Arora Bhola
What are the latest milestones NIA has achieved? When will cargo ops commence?
NIA has partnered with Air India SATS for development and operation of a multimodal cargo hub (MMCH). Construction of MMCH, which began in 2023, is progressing steadily. The Integrated Cargo Terminal (ICT) at AISATS was the key infrastructure milestone in phase I of MMCH development, which will play a pivotal role in North India’s air cargo ecosystem. We remain committed to delivering a world-class airport catering to expectations of the passengers, airline partners and stakeholders.
Can you brief about the collaborations the NIA will have with cargo carriers and forwarders?
We are engaging with leading cargo airlines, forwarders, e-commerce logistics players, and multinational supply chain partners to set up collaborations. The ICT will support a variety of freight types, including general cargo, perishables, pharmaceuticals and express shipments, streamlined handling and customs clearances. A key differentiator and a first in India is the direct connectivity between the ICT and Integrated Warehousing and Logistics Zone (IWLZ), facilitated by the AISATS MMCH, which will provide freight forwarders with faster cargo processing times.
What infrastructure upgrades have been made to support cargo flow at the airport?
The MMCH will provide efficient intermodal connectivity, streamlining cargo movement within India and abroad. It will offer a comprehensive range of cargo handling services, including domestic and international shipments, express cargo handling and transshipment services. The MMCH will comprise an ICT and an IWLZ.
Some of the technology advancements planned for implementation at the NIA’s cargo terminal include:
- ICT: Being developed on a 30-acre site with an initial capacity of 250,000 MT annually and designed to be scalable to meet future demands.
- IWLZ: Featuring consolidation centre, bonded warehouse, logistics park and a dedicated trucking centre for efficient multimodal cargo movement.
- COSYS+ Cloud-based platform: AISATS’ cloud-based warehouse management system will help in real-time visibility of inventory and vital data throughout the journey.
- Single Window Airport Cargo Community System: It will facilitate seamless transfer of data across stakeholders in the supply chain.
- Automated Guided Vehicles (AGVs): These vehicles will be introduced in the future to transport cargo.
The MMCH at NIA will utilise a digital solution, including the IATA-recommended e-freight system to streamline information flow and provide end-to-end and live tracking of shipments. This global standard promotes paperless clearance and supports efficient air cargo transportation. The IWLZ will provide e-commerce businesses and forwarders with enhanced operational flexibility, contributing to the air cargo sector’s growth in India.
What facilities does NIA have to carry perishables, pharma and high-value goods?
NIA’s AISATS MMCH is designed to accommodate diverse cargo needs through dedicated facilities. This includes an ICT, offering a fully integrated space for handling imports, exports, and domestic shipments. The terminal will be equipped with temperature-controlled infrastructure for perishables, pharma, and high-value goods, adhering to global quality standards.
To ensure the integrity of pharma logistics, an IoT-based solution will be implemented, enabling real-time temperature and location tracking, along with other shipment data throughout the shifting process. The Express Courier Terminal will cater to e-commerce and courier shipments, ensuring rapid clearance and delivery. The Consolidation Centre will provide warehousing and value-added services such as packaging, labelling, and sorting and optimised cargo consolidation.
The Trucking Centre offers ample parking for trucks, reducing congestion at the terminal’s entry and exit points. These zones create a comprehensive solution for varied cargo handling needs, enhancing efficiency and reliability.
How does NIA plan to integrate digital solutions to improve cargo tracking, handling and delivery?
The MMCH will utilise WMS for real-time tracking and efficient inventory management, along with a Material Handling System (MHS) that includes automated storage and retrieval systems, elevating transfer vehicles and narrow aisle systems for optimal space utilisation. Our Cloud-Based WMS, COSYS+ is a user-friendly platform designed to streamline ops and enhance the overall user experience with cyber-security. This Cloud-based system will integrate with government agencies, airlines and other stakeholders to ensure enhanced functionality and increased efficiency.
To enhance cargo efficiency at NIA, AISATS is leveraging advanced technology and automation. Key digital initiatives include:
- Smart cargo management systems, such as a Single Window Airport Cargo Community System, for seamless stakeholder connectivity and improved transparency.
- An Automated Dimensioning and Digitisation System will capture accurate cargo data for faster acceptance and optimised capacity.
- A dedicated mobile app and e-kiosk systems will enhance accessibility, ensuring a smarter and faster cargo ecosystem at the NIA.
What steps are being taken to ensure cargo ops are environmentally sustainable at NIA?
NIA is committed to developing a sustainable airport with the goal of achieving net zero emissions. Sustainability has been a core principle, influencing the selection of planning and design teams, construction partners and concessionaires.
To minimise our CO2 footprint and promote sustainable operations, the airport is also implementing various eco-friendly initiatives. This includes partnering with Mahindra Logistics Mobility to provide a premium, all-electric taxi service and ensuring our ground handling partner, Bird Group, operates a fully electric fleet of GSE.
Have you partnered with Indian Oil to operate fuel stations at the airport for passenger convenience?
The Air India SATS is solidifying this commitment to sustainability within the airport’s operations by implementing eco-friendly initiatives. These initiatives include energy-efficient infrastructure such as LED lighting and solar power, green buildings with sustainable construction materials, eGSE, zero-waste policies, paperless cargo handling through e-AWB, energy-efficient refrigeration units in the Coolport, and smart cooling technologies.
These sustainable initiatives position AISATS as a leader in sustainable air cargo logistics, aligning with international green aviation standards.
