Navi Mumbai airport is in discussion with DHL Aviation and FedEx for development of a cargo hub.
Navi Mumbai airport, which is set to open for passenger operations from May, is banking on its locational advantage (proximity to the Jawaharlal Nehru Port) to attract top cargo airlines. Availability of slots will be another asset at the airport.
A cargo hub will facilitate point to point transport and also transshipment of goods from both within India and overseas.
“We are talking to DHL and FedEx to develop a cargo hub,” an official said. Space has also been earmarked for a dedicated cargo terminal for a hub airline in the airport master plan, it is learnt.
Navi Mumbai airport will have the ability to handle 2.6 million metric tonnes of cargo per year. As per its master plan 29 hectares is being allocated for cargo area including 10 freighter stands, fully automated terminal among others.
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While domestic cargo operations will begin along with passenger flights, international cargo movement will commence at a later date.
FedEx said it is actively working to establish an international cargo hub in India that will enhance connectivity, facilitate faster goods movement and support India’s growing trade ecosystem.
“Discussions are ongoing to finalise a location that aligns with our strategic growth vision. We will announce further details in due course,” FedEx said.
“The planned India hub will enable efficient movement of goods across South Asia, Europe and the US. By fostering stronger links between India and key global markets, the hub underscores our commitment to driving economic growth and empowering businesses with smarter and more efficient logistics,” the company said.
FedEx said it is working with the government on some critical regulatory enablers for the setting up of a hub. DHL declined comment citing a silent period. Navi Mumbai International Airport too refused comment on its discussions with cargo airlines.
While FedEx did not specify the regulatory enablers, the domestic air cargo industry has asked the government to simplify processes and security regulations. According to the industry, one such requirement needing change is rescreening of cargo as it adds to time and cost. This makes Indian airlines and airports less competitive compared to regional rivals. The Indian cargo industry has targeted trebling annual throughput at Indian airports to 10 million tonnes by FY 2030.
Indian airports handled 3.36 million tonnes cargo in FY 2024 which was 7 per cent higher than previous year. While domestic cargo increased by 3 per cent, international argo increased by 9.7 per cent during this period.