Blackstone Group, a US-based firm has taken possession of close to 5 million square feet of warehousing area from LOGOS India. Reportedly, the deal has been finalised for a total amount of 1725 Crore. Following this acquisition, Blackstone is now the largest logistics asset-holder in India with a massive 55 million sq ft of warehousing assets. The deal involves acquisition of operational assets in Chennai and Haryana. Previously, Blackstone Group was emerging as the leading bidder in the race for the acquisition of the LOGOS India’s assets, facing tough competition from Singapore’s wealth fund GIC and Japanese conglomerate Mitsui OSK Lines.

  ECS Group’s subsidiary, Globe Air Cargo India (GACI), has been appointed as GSSA for Thai Airways in Bengaluru and Cochin. This partnership, effective since 1 September 2024, aims to strengthen Thai Airways’ capacity and connectivity in India, facilitating access to key markets in Far East, Europe, and Australia, “This partnership marks an exciting chapter as we join forces with Thai Airways to boost cargo capacity and connectivity across key routes,” Girish Kunder, MD, GACI, said. Under the new contract, GACI oversees daily A350-900 flights from Bengaluru, each providing a capacity of 15 tonnes. Cochin has now expanded to daily operations, contributing an additional 2.5 tonnes capacity per flight. This strategic move bolsters Thai Airways’ cargo network within India, with GACI managing four of the airline’s eight major stations nationwide, and handling over 40 per cent of its total exports from the country.  

dnata has broken ground on a new 57,000 sq. m warehousing facility in Dubai South, the largest single-urban master development focusing on aviation, logistics and real estate. Strategically located near Dubai World Central – Al Maktoum International Airport (DWC), the expansion represents an investment of AED 100 million (US$ 27 million). The groundbreaking ceremony was attended by HE Khalifa Al Zaffin, Executive Chairman of Dubai Aviation City Corporation and Dubai South, and Steve Allen, CEO of dnata, in the presence of senior executives from both entities. Construction of the warehouse is underway, with completion scheduled for November 2025. Including its newest facility, dnata Logistics will offer world-class services from 11 locations in the UAE. “We are thrilled to break ground on this new, advanced facility, which represents a pivotal investment in our future growth. As we expand our product offerings and reach new markets, this warehouse will allow us to provide even better services to our customers, while staying at the forefront of operational innovation. Our commitment to sustainability is central to this project. From energy efficiency to waste reduction, every aspect of the warehouse has been designed with environmental efficiency in mind. The facility’s innovative features will help us grow responsibly, making a positive impact on the communities we serve,” Sean Bradley, Managing Director of dnata Logistics, said.          

Gregory Goba- Blé, Head, UPS India and Director, MOVIN Express said, “This year marks a pivotal moment for the logistics landscape in India. The air cargo sector has witnessed remarkable advancements in infrastructure, driven by substantial investments that have enhanced the robustness and efficiency of operations. The PM GatiShakti National Master Plan has played a crucial role in improving multimodal and last-mile connectivity while reducing logistics costs. The booming e-commerce industry has spurred significant growth in the express logistics segment, while warehousing demands have surged in key markets nationwide. Innovative last-mile delivery solutions, including drones and advanced tracking systems, are transforming the industry. Additionally, initiatives like LEEP are optimizing efficiency and fostering a world-class logistics ecosystem.”

Air India SATS Airport Services (AISATS) has launched its innovative Aerowash service, at the at Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (KIAB / BLR Airport), following its initial implementation in Delhi. The Swedish-based Aerowash system uses advanced robotic technology to deliver precise, efficient aircraft exterior cleaning while achieving significant environmental benefits. In just 2,414 aircraft cleans, the service has saved approximately 31,000 tons of CO2 emissions and conserved 4.2 million liters of water. By reducing aerodynamic drag, minimizing ground time, and thoroughly cleaning the aircraft exterior, Aerowash not only enhances aircraft performance but also provides enhanced ergonomic conditions for operators to perform aircraft cleans. “AISATS is proud to partner with Bangalore International Airport (BIAL) at BLR Airport, delivering innovative, eco-friendly solutions that align with BIAL’s world-class standards. Through advanced technologies and sustainable practices, we’re redefining operational efficiency and setting new benchmarks in India’s aviation sector,” Ramanathan Rajamani, CEO, AISATS, said in a statement.

GMR Hyderabad Air Cargo (GHAC) has secured the Customs Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) certification. The certification has been awarded as GHAC has maintained the highest standards of security in its operations and has enhanced the security of the global supply chain. CTPAT recognizes companies that have implemented stringent security practices and procedures to safeguard the supply chain against terrorism and other threats. “The certification from CTPAT is a significant milestone for GHAC. This certification not only strengthens our security framework but also reinforces our commitment to providing world-class cargo services that meet the highest global standards,” Pradeep Panicker, CEO, GHIAL said in a statement.

Ramesh Mamidala, Head – Cargo, Air India says – “There have been issues like shortage of capacity during peak season and as an airline that’s one challenge which we face at airports. Capacity expansion is must especially now when the volumes have witnessed substantial growth as compared to last year. During peak seasons, cargo volumes increase notably. I think the capacity expansion is very important. It can be improved by making the process efficient. Regulatory checks, customs clearances, etc, need to become more efficient to process cargo much faster, quicker, and create more capacity. We need to make India a transshipment hub and for that it’s important.”

Arun Chandra, Vice President- Aviation Business, BIAL says, “I feel technology is the only solution which can help in reducing congestion at the airports during the peak hours. Building more capacity at the terminals in terms of brick and mortar is easy but is that the way forward or should we improvise on the processes and use tech tools which help us manage better. There are enough AI tools available with predictive analytics which helps us forecast the demand and helps us to allocate resources for a data driven manner as well. The stakeholders must realize that each of us has a goal to play when we try to have the entire supply chain processes executed. It cannot be a work in silos. It cannot be a work where we are trying to only think of our own part of the process. We all must stitch together the entire story and take it forward.”

Adani Gangavaram Port has announced the launch of two state-of-the-art Economic Grab Ship Cranes, marking a significant milestone as the first in India. These advanced electric cranes are designed to handle multi-purpose operations, efficiently managing, loading and unloading processes. The introduction of these highly advanced cranes will elevate the standards of operational efficiency and sustainable practices at the port. By integrating the latest technology and processes, the port aims to strengthen its position as a leader in trade services. “We are extremely delighted on the induction of the first Economic Grab Ship Cranes in India, and it is a witness to our commitment to enhancing efficiency and better serving our customers. We continue to invest in state-of-the-art technologies that improve efficiency, ensure sustainability, and enhance overall user experience. Our dedication to bringing the best processes and technology to serve the trade remains steadfast, and these cranes are a witness to our vision of becoming a leader in India’s port and logistics sector,” Adani Gangavaram Port Limited management said.

Pristine Value Logistics has announced a signing of a long-term pact with Antariksh Group, for the possession of 165,000 sq ft area at Bhiwandi, Maharashtra. The Grade A warehousing facility is expected to commence operations in March 2025, confirmed an official statement from the company. The warehousing facility will play an instrumental role in strengthening the company’s delivery capabilities across various verticals of the industry. “We are growing our warehouse capacity to meet the rising demand and to ensure our customers get efficient, customised and scalable solutions. The expansion strategy is in sync with the overall outlook of the group to become an end-to-end logistics and supply chain service provider,” Sanjay Mawar, Director, Pristine Value Logistics and Pristine Logistics & Infraprojects said.