Cochin International Airport (CIAL) is all set to have new cargo terminal with modern ground handling facilities and MMLP. Work is in progress to expand cold storage and warehouse capacities, and implement new technologies to enhance efficiency, says Sajith D, Assistant General Manager, Cargo, CIAL.
Akash Tyagi
In 2024, the airport handled 59,000 MT of freight despite challenges in the sector. What was your strategy?
Our strategy focuses on agile operational adjustments and coordination between stakeholders to mitigate disruptions. We optimised cargo flow, prioritised perishables and time-sensitive shipments, and reduced delays. Cochin airport leveraged its regional network to maintain timely linkage for domestic and global shipments. Our customer-centric approach included efficient cargo tracking and digital documentation to streamline operations, even during peak demand. In FY 2023-24, the airport handled 63,642.3 MT of cargo—internationally 48,236.6 MT and domestic 15,405.7 MT.
CIAL announced a 3-year development plan with investments of Rs 1,000 crore. How do you plan to upgrade cargo infra?
Our plan includes building a new export cargo terminal with modern handling facilities and establishing a logistics cargo park on a 10-acre area, alongside a mini cargo station. We are expanding cold storage, increasing warehouse capacity, and implementing automated handling systems to enhance efficiency. The expansion is likely to be completed by 2029. This approach will elevate the airport’s cargo operations to global standards, combining sustainability with technology. The cargo park and new terminal will attract more exporters from South India, strengthening our role as a key export hub. We plan to integrate digital and AI-based systems to accelerate handling and improve operational transparency.
Can you provide a brief on the export and import cargo profiles at the airport?
CIAL has dedicated handling facilities for export cargo, import cargo, domestic cargo, and transshipment cargo. Export cargo includes perishables, which require rapid processing due to time and temperature sensitivity. General export cargo includes garments, spices, engineering products, and electronics. Import cargo comprises commercial goods, baggage, and courier items. Our proximity to industrial hubs such as
Coimbatore and Tirupur among others enables us to handle exports such as fresh produce and textiles, while
imports feature high-value items such as electronics and medical equipment.
What is the significance of PMGS and NLP in enhancing India’s cargo sector?
These policies contribute to reducing logistical bottlenecks, enhancing multimodal connectivity, and supporting infrastructure growth. For Cochin, they facilitate smooth cargo flow and position us as a vital logistics hub for national and global trade. These initiatives align with the airport’s commitment to becoming a logistics and cargo hub for south India. The multimodal transport and linkage support provided by PMGS is vital for our plans to integrate road and rail links directly to the airport’s cargo terminals.
What infrastructure does the airport have for handling perishables and pharma?
We operate 25,000-square feet centre for perishable cargo with a capacity to handle up to 25,000 MT per annum. Our dry cargo facility has an annual capacity of 50,000 MT, with expansion plans to double capacity to 1 lakh MT. For perishables, the airport has dedicated cold storage zones with real-time temperature monitoring and backup systems. We also facilitate fast-track customs clearance to minimise storage time and maintain quality throughout the handling process.
Give us details about freighter operations, including frequency and types of cargo handled?
Currently, the Cochin airport does not have a dedicated freighter service. However, under the new Open Sky Policy, we are working to establish freighters to enable us to handle a variety of cargo, including perishables, textiles, electronics, spices, and industrial goods. We are also exploring partnerships with logistics companies and airlines to have direct cargo connectivity with major European markets.
Do you believe the revised Open Sky policy will help India grow in the air
cargo sector?
The revised Open Sky Policy has the potential to enhance India’s global connectivity in air cargo. Although the airport currently lacks freighters, we are working in that direction. This will expand our handling capacity and position us as a key gateway for global freight, supporting India’s vision for the air cargo sector. The policy aligns with our goal to establish dedicated freighters, providing seamless connections for south Indian exports to global markets.
What are the challenges in handling cargo at the airport?
While we have streamlined most operations, challenges remain with customs processing times during peak hours and managing high volumes. Our ongoing investments aim to address these particular bottlenecks and optimise our handling capabilities.
What is the airport’s vision on net zero emissions?
We are proud to be the world’s first fully solar-powered airport, producing more
power than needed and selling the surplus to Kerala State Electricity Board. This initiative is central to our sustainability efforts. We also plan to explore hydrogen production as part of our net zero goal. Beyond solar, we are looking into energy-efficient EGVs to minimise our CO2 footprint. Our vision includes creating green spaces and afforestation around the cargo facilities to enhance our environmental impact.
