Jalpa H Vithalani, Director, Global Aviation Services said, “The air cargo industry is rapidly integrating digital platforms and blockchain to enhance transparency and security. Blockchain enables real-time, tamper-proof tracking of shipments, reducing fraud and ensuring data integrity. Digital platforms streamline documentation, automate processes, and enhance efficiency through AI and IoT-driven analytics, reducing delays and operational bottlenecks. Investments in training and standardised digital infrastructure will drive widespread adoption. Balancing sustainability with demand for quick deliveries is critical. Companies can achieve this by adopting fuel-efficient aircraft, optimizing routing with AI, and utilising sustainable aviation fuels (SAF). Initiating interline agreements with airlines can cut down covering air distances thus reducing their own carbon footprints. Implementing carbon offset programs and investing in green logistics solutions, such as electric ground vehicles and eco-friendly packaging, will further reduce environmental impact. Collaboration across stakeholders—including airlines, logistics providers, and policymakers—will be key to achieving a greener, more efficient future for air cargo while meeting the increasing demand for rapid global deliveries.  

Jinali Gandhi, Business Head- Global Growth & Expansion, Gandhi Automations said, “Technological innovations like IoT and digitalisation are transforming logistics and air cargo operations by streamlining operations, enhancing security, and improving supply chain visibility. Smart sensors enable real-time tracking, ensuring optimal conditions for cargo storage and transport while reducing manual intervention and errors. At Gandhi Automations, we integrate these digital advancements with automation to enhance air cargo terminal efficiency. Our automated loading bay solutions, high-speed doors, and cold storage doors ensure seamless cargo movement while maintaining strict temperature and environmental controls. Our high-speed doors feature a partial opening function to minimise temperature fluctuations and energy loss while also being equipped with motion sensors to detect movement, preventing accidental closures and ensuring safe, obstruction-free operations. Our dock houses and insulated sectional overhead doors further optimize energy efficiency, safeguarding perishable and temperature-sensitive goods. Additionally, our advanced loading bay equipment enhances operational efficiency by reducing handling time, optimizing cargo flow, and ensuring airtight sealing to protect against external contaminants.”

The Indian Institute of Foreign Trade (IIFT) has signed MoU with Antwerp/Flanders Port Training Center, Belgium (APEC) to boost logistics education and training. This partnership aims to foster academic collaboration, knowledge exchange, and research in international trade, supply chain management, and port operations. The MoU seeks to bridge the gap between academia and industry by facilitating faculty and student exchanges, joint research on port management and global logistics, and specialized training programs. Additionally, it will enable knowledge sharing in e-governance, digital trade, and emerging business technologies, ensuring that students and professionals are equipped with cutting-edge industry insights.

Mobility Solutions (MSL) is all set to expand its manufacturing facility in Batauli, Punjab, to tap into new market potential across multiple industries with advanced composites solutions. Spanning over 41,700 square meters, with a covered area of 12,000 square meters, this advanced facility now extends beyond Glass-Reinforced Plastic (GRP) manufacturing to provide different advanced composites solutions for railways, automotive, defense, aerospace and infrastructure sectors. This major upgrade reflects MSL’s commitment to innovation, sustainability, and economic growth. Commercial production at the upgraded plant commenced in December 2024, with plans to achieve full operational capacity by July 2025. Batauli was chosen for its strategic proximity to JCBL Group’s other manufacturing hubs, availability of skilled labor, and efficient access to transportation networks. The new facility currently employs over 150 personnel and plans to expand to include new product lines. It will contribute significantly to local economic growth and the national exchequer. The plant incorporates several green initiatives, including renewable energy systems, advanced water conservation techniques, and a waste reduction program. A solar energy system is currently in progress, further reinforcing MSL’s commitment to sustainability. These initiatives align with MSL’s broader goal of reducing environmental impact and supporting global sustainability efforts

CargoAi’s CargoWALLET Technology & Neutral Air Partner have launched NAPAY : to facilitate air cargo payments. Developed in strategic partnership with CargoAi, NAPAY is powered by CargoWALLET technology, delivering secure, fast, and seamless financial transactions across global air cargo operations. As air cargo continues to evolve through digital innovation, the need for streamlined, cost-effective payment solutions has become paramount. NAPAY addresses this challenge by enabling freight forwarders, consolidators, airlines, and GSSAs within the NAP network to process international payments with unmatched efficiency. By integrating CargoWALLET’s multi-currency, API-first payment platform, NAPAY offers new features to its members including: • Real-Time Payment Processing: Instant transactions across over 150 countries and 47 currencies, ensuring secure and timely financial flows. • Enhanced Security and Transparency: Robust encryption and traceability features to maintain full compliance with international standards. • Operational Efficiency: Streamlined financial operations that contribute to reduced overhead and improved cash flow management. “Partnering with CargoWallet to launch NAPAY marks a significant milestone for Neutral Air Partner,” said NAP’s CEO, Christos Spyrou. “Our goal is to empower our network with an advanced, reliable payment solution that not only simplifies transactions between members but also drives efficiency and transparency across the entire air cargo logistics ecosystem. NAPAY is a game-changer for our industry.” “I’m excited to start using NAPay! As an NAP network member, we frequently send and receive payments with other global members. Traditional payment options are slow and expensive, but NAPay offers real-time payments at a reasonable cost. It’s easy to use, helping us keep freight moving efficiently,” said Damien Rizzo, CFO of EZ Cargo. Olivier Veyrac, Senior Vice President of CargoAi’s CargoWALLET, added, “We are excited to collaborate with Neutral Air Partner …

ECU Worldwide, Allcargo Logistics’ wholly owned global subsidiary, has launched XLERATE 2.0, to boost speed and reliability in global logistics. The service operates via sea routes from major Chinese ports to Los Angeles, followed by inland distribution to 10 newly added, strategic location across the United States. This expansion enhances ECU Worldwide’s ability to provide expedited delivery times and reliable cargo movement for time-sensitive shipments from China to the USA. With this growth, ECU Worldwide has strengthened its network across major U.S. cities, including Seattle, San Francisco, Las Vegas, Denver, Detroit, San Antonio, Charleston, Kansas City, Laredo and San Juan. These expansion increases our network from 20 to 30 locations, further reinforcing ECU Worldwide’s delivery services and expanding its reach for customers across the US. Niels Nielsen Regional Head USA & Canada said, “XLERATE 2.0 marks a significant leap forward in global logistics. With industry-leading transit times, cargo is available in just 12 days from vessel sailing from China to the USA, and final delivery to our expanded network of 30 locations will be completed within 15–18 days. This enhanced geographic coverage, combined with streamlined processes and priority handling, empowers our customers to maintain a competitive edge in their markets while building more resilient supply chains.”  

RGL is expanding its presence nationwide with the lease of a 450,000 sq. ft. Grade A+ sustainable warehouse at One Samruddhi Park, Bhiwandi, Maharashtra. Launching in May 2025, this advanced facility is designed to optimise logistics efficiency while prioritising sustainability and innovation. The Bhiwandi facility is 100% industry-compliant and has top-tier sustainability benchmarks. To enhance operational sustainability, it will integrate environmentally responsible construction methods, sustainably sourced land, energy-efficient systems, and solar installations. Strategically located at One Samruddhi Park on Kalyan-Sape Road, the warehouse offers excellent connectivity to major trade and industrial zones. It provides direct access to the Mumbai-Nashik Expressway, the Mumbai-Delhi Corridor, Samruddhi Mahamarg, and key highways such as NH-48, NH-160, and NH-61. Additionally, its proximity to Mumbai International Airport (55 km), Navi Mumbai International Airport (50 km), and JNPT Port (63 km) makes it a crucial hub for efficient distribution. “Our new Bhiwandi warehouse represents a significant step towards a more efficient supply chain. With an investment of ₹25 crore, we are expanding to help businesses meet rising consumer demand. Increased demand translates to more inventory, and this facility is designed to support that growth. Beyond logistics, this expansion aims to create jobs, strengthen local economies, and build a smarter, faster, and more resilient supply chain. Our rapid expansion across key logistics hubs is shaping the future of India’s supply chain with agile, technology-driven, and sustainable solutions.” said Aditya Vazirani, CEO of RGL. Building on this momentum, RGL has launched a 150,000 sq. ft. warehouse in Gurgaon, strategically positioned near the Dwarka Expressway and KMP Expressway for seamless access to IGI Airport, Delhi, and major industrial hubs. This facility strengthens supply chains for e-commerce, retail, FMCG, and automotive …

In CY 2024, GMR Hyderabad International Airport (GHIAL) achieved significant growth, handling a total cargo volume of 1,80,914 metric tons. This included 1,08,520 metric tons of international cargo and 72,395 metric tons of domestic cargo. In CY 2024, HYD Cargo sustained its growth momentum, operating to over 20 international destinations through a robust network of passenger and freighter flights. Serving as a vital gateway, HYD Cargo facilitated exports to top global markets, with high-value pharmaceutical shipments comprising 72 per cent of the total exports. The United States and Europe remained the largest export regions, accounting for 51% of the total exports from HYD. It established a direct connection to the African market with Ethiopian Airlines operating two weekly freighters services between Hyderabad and Addis Ababa. In late October 2024, Lufthansa Cargo transitioned to operating its own Boeing 777F freighters from Hyderabad (HYD), enhancing its direct cargo operations in the Indian market with greater control and flexibility. Additionally, passenger flight frequency increased from five to six weekly. Also, Qatar Airways and Turkish Airlines operate scheduled freighter services to their respective hubs (DOH and IST) using wide-body freighters. Qatar Airways is increasing its freighter frequency effective February 2025, on the HYD-DOH route from 2 to 3 weekly using B777F aircraft looking at the growing potential at Hyderabad. Exports from Hyderabad Airport reached destinations worldwide, including the USA, Europe, Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, Australia, and China. The cargo infrastructure at Hyderabad is undergoing significant expansion to meet growing demand. The existing Cargo Terminal 1 is being upgraded and, upon completion, will feature a state-of-the-art Domestic Terminal, an International Courier/Express Terminal, and a dedicated Export Perishables Terminal, all aimed at …

The Air Cargo Agents Association of India (ACAAI) recently hosted its western region meeting to discuss key developments in the air cargo industry. Hardeep Batra, Commissioner of Customs – Export Air Cargo Complex, Mumbai was invited as the Chief Guest.  The event was attended by the key industry stakeholders including, Rajen Bhatia, President, Western Region, ACAAI, Shailesh Sharma, Honorary Secretary and Farokh Hansotia, Honorary Treasurer.

With just a week to go, LogiTHON 2025 has already secured over 1,000 participants across 350+ teams from 200+ colleges, making it one of the largest AI-driven logistics hackathons in India. This 24-hour innovation challenge, organised by IIT Bombay, Softlink Global and AllMasters, is set to take place on March 8-9 and will push participants to develop cutting-edge solutions for real-world logistics and supply chain challenges. As logistics undergoes a tech-driven transformation, LogiTHON 2025 offers a unique platform for engineers, AI developers, and innovators to tackle real-world industry challenges. More than just a competition, it’s a career accelerator, providing young engineers with the opportunity to fast-track their careers in one of the largest industries in the world. “LogiTHON develop is a launchpad for the brightest young minds to develop groundbreaking solutions and receive mentorship from industry veterans. Softlink Global, with an aim to nurture individuals as well as source the best talent in the logistics industry, has and will continue providing employment opportunities to notable talent in LogiTHON,” noted Amit Maheshwari, Founder & CEO at Softlink Global. The top-performing teams will compete for a grand prize of ₹200,000 and an exclusive opportunity to fast-track their careers with Softlink Global. Finalists will gain direct access to Softlink Global’s interview round, with a coveted annual package of ₹800,000 awaiting the best candidates. Participants will work on mission-critical logistics challenges, including: Compliance Automation for Cross-Border Shipments – Designing AI-powered solutions to streamline regulatory processes and minimize shipment delays Multi-Modal Route Optimization – Developing intelligent cargo routing systems to enhance efficiency and reduce costs With AI, automation, and digital transformation at the core, participants will gain hands-on experience in solving industry-relevant problems, preparing them …