Delhi Airport: The leading Cargo Hub in Southeast Asia

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Delhi Airport: The leading Cargo Hub in Southeast Asia

12 April 2024

At the heart of every thriving economy lies a network of systems and industries that work together seamlessly to fuel growth. Among these, the aviation industry plays a pivotal role, not just in connecting people but in creating job opportunities and boosting national economies. And when airports expand their cargo facilities, it creates a ripple effect, benefiting manufacturers of all sizes. These businesses, large and small, gain access to an efficient way to send products both domestically and internationally, directly impacting the GDP of their country.

One airport that has truly embraced this role is Delhi’s Indira Gandhi International Airport, positioning itself as a key player in the global logistics network. Over the years, it has grown into one of Southeast Asia’s leading cargo hubs, establishing itself as an essential part of the supply chain. In a historic feat, Delhi Airport became the first in India to handle over 1 million metric tons of cargo in a single month. This milestone is not just a statistic; it represents the airport’s ability to meet the needs of international manufacturers and suppliers, especially in Southeast Asia, looking for faster and cost-effective shipping solutions.

Delhi Airport’s strategic position allows it to cater to a vast array of global markets, with cargo moving between India and countries like the USA, Germany, Spain, the UK, Hong Kong, China, Afghanistan, the UAE, Japan, Vietnam, and South Korea, to name a few. With its extensive airline network – the largest in India – and a fleet of over 70 carriers, the airport handles a remarkable 30% of India’s air freight market. This makes it a cornerstone in the global transportation of goods.

But what makes Delhi Airport such an efficient and effective cargo hub? It is the combination of cutting-edge technology and advanced infrastructure. The airport boasts state-of-the-art handling equipment, sophisticated screening systems, and efficient storage and processing facilities, making it an ideal place for cargo operations. Paperless processes streamline operations, ensuring that everything runs smoothly. Additionally, the airside infrastructure, including a fourth runway and 12 dedicated freighter bays, means the airport can accommodate even the largest cargo shipments with ease.

However, Delhi Airport’s services go beyond just moving cargo from one point to another. It offers specialized handling for critical commodity segments like pharmaceuticals, perishables, ready-made garments, and electronics. The airport has dedicated facilities and trained personnel to manage products that require precise temperature control. With a temperature range from -20°C to +25°C, Delhi Airport ensures the integrity of sensitive products, from vaccines to food, is never compromised. Special cool dollies are used to move temperature-sensitive cargo, maintaining the cold chain from terminal to aircraft.

To further enhance efficiency, Delhi Airport employs advanced digital solutions, allowing for remote monitoring and quick adjustments if needed. With alarm systems in place, any deviation in temperature or cargo handling is immediately addressed, ensuring the highest level of care is maintained for every product.

At Delhi Airport, technology and human expertise work hand in hand to ensure that cargo moves quickly and safely across borders. Whether it is a simple shipment or a high-priority item, the airport guarantees that all cargo receives the care and attention it deserves. In this way, Delhi Airport has not just become a hub for air freight; it has become a symbol of innovation, efficiency, and a critical driver of economic growth.