The International Air Transport Association (IATA) has been rejecting the DG certificate issued by DGCA approved Indian DG Training schools that are presented by Indian cargo agents for their IATA accreditation. It appears that along with the certificate, they also want a certificate from the training school.  It is affecting the trade notably. Addressing the concern, Radharaman Panicker, MD, Dangerous Goods Management India in an exclusive chat says, “The training school offering DG course for air transport needs to be approved by Director General of Civil Aviation, Government of India according to the civil aviation requirement (CAR) on training issued by the competent authority. Further it is mandatory for every one involved in the transportation of air cargo to be trained in accordance with the said CAR, which also includes the freight forwarder. This is as per Rule 12 of the Aircraft (Carriage of Dangerous Goods) Rules 2003. The certificate issued by the approved training schools are required to affix the words “DGCA approved” on the certificate. Certificate issued by us also contains such a requirement. This is being followed in India for last 12-13 years now. Most of the institutes in India were first required to be approved by DGCA, then only the IATA accreditation if any would come into play. So it is ridiculous for IATA to ask for additional certificate from the training school. Otherwise what is the meaning of certificate being issued by approved training school. If IATA indeed has doubt about the authenticity of the school, they should address the matter to the DGCA and asked to be submitted a list of approved training school for their record or they could simply go and check …

Abhishek Goyal, Executive Director, Aeroprime Group shares his feedback on the budget, “We are highly encouraged by the 2024 budget’s focus on enhancing domestic tourism through improved infrastructure and connectivity. These reforms are poised to revitalize the cargo and logistics sector. This initiative aligns perfectly with our commitment to driving growth and innovation in the aviation and logistics industries. We look forward to the positive ripple effects this will have on the economy and our industry.”  

DP World has received the prestigious AEO-LO (Authorised Economic Operator for Logistic & Terminal Operators) certification. The certification, under the aegis of the World Customs Organisation (WCO) SAFE Framework of Standards, is awarded to companies whose operations strengthen global supply chain security and facilitate movement of legitimate goods. In today’s volatile environment of global trade, this certification will underline and enhance DP World’s credentials as a reliable and secure logistics provider with deep expertise in ensuring efficient cross-border trade. The AEO-LO certification will streamline clearance procedures for DP World at all customs stations across India for a period of five-years. Rajesh Pandey, Chief Commissioner of Customs, Mumbai Zone-II, Jawaharlal Nehru Custom House (JNCH) handed over the certification to DP World, represented by Akash Agrawal, Vice-President, Freight Forwarding, India subcontinent. By adhering to AEO-LO’s stringent standards, DP World ensures secure multi-channel and multi-region movement of cargo for its customers and benefit from the ease of facilitation which is available in countries with whom India has signed the Mutual Recognition Agreement (MRA) like South Korea, Taiwan and Hong Kong Customs. The certification also provides DP World with access to Direct Port Delivery (DPD) for import containers and Direct Port Entry (DPE) for export containers, thus reducing turnaround time and enabling faster movement of goods through customs stations in the country. The AEO-LO certification is particularly beneficial for businesses involved in export-import activities, including freight forwarding and operations in Free Trade Warehousing Zones (FTWZs). The benefits of AEO certification include faster processing and clearance of cargo, deferred payment of duty, direct port delivery/entry, and benefits under Mutual Recognition arrangements (MRA).

UK freighter operator One Air has plans to double its fleet to four aircraft by the end of 2025. The carrier, which was launched a year ago, currently operates two converted Boeing 747 freighters and will add a third 747 aircraft, with nose-loading capabilities, by the end of August.  Chris Hope, COO, One Air said in a statement, “The first year of operations for a new airline can be a voyage of discovery. I am delighted to say that at One Air, our first 12 months have seen steady growth as we lay the foundations for our long-term ambitions. We greatly appreciate our global sales agency partner, Air One Aviation, for driving demand, and the freight forwarders, charter brokers, and logistics providers for their trust in us as a new airline. The arrival of our third aircraft in August will expand our offerings, and by the end of 2025, we hope to have doubled our fleet based on promising growth opportunities.”  

Geodis has attained the Transported Asset Protection Association Trucking Security Requirements (TAPA TSR) 2023 Level 1 Standard for the Geodis Road Network fleet covering Singapore and Malaysia. This certification is a first in the international freight forwarding industry for cross-border road freight between Singapore and Malaysia, enhancing GEODIS’ reputation as an industry leader committed to the highest standards of freight security and reliability. The TSR Level 1 is the highest level of certification granted by TAPA and validates GEODIS’ adherence to rigorous standards in the transportation of goods via road, securing customers’ cargo against theft, tampering and evolving threats. This independently audited certification is widely regarded to be the industry-leading security standard and the benchmark that demonstrates a company’s commitment to implementing stringent security measures to mitigate risks.    

Satish Lakkaraju, CEO, Garudavega, Nexgen Logistics said, “The Current Budget has focussed on the states like Andhra Pradesh which have the largest coast line and the potential to bring the overall logistics cost down. The Budget has touched important aspect of Infrastructure and allocating Rs.11.11 lakhs crore for capital expenditure which will boost development and participation from the state government as well . Bihar will receive a substantial Rs.26,000 crores as well and that will help in the development of key infrastructure projects along with the Visakhapatnam – Chennai Industrial corridor. The coast line of Andhra Pradesh and the development of the Industrial corridor will boost the logistics industry and clearly as well.”

  Xerrxes Master, President, Association of Multimodal Transport Operators of India (AMTOI) focuses on the fiscal deficit target for FY 2024-25 which is set at 5.1% of GDP, down from the revised estimate of 5.8% for FY 2023-24. This demonstrates a commitment to fiscal prudence and stability. There are no changes in the tax rates for direct and indirect taxes, including import duties. This continuity aims to provide a stable environment for businesses and taxpayers. The outlay for capital expenditure is increased by 11.1% to ₹11.11 lakh crore, which is 3.4% of GDP. This is expected to significantly boost economic growth and employment. A major push for railway infrastructure is also a great move.”  

Yashpal Sharma, President, Air Cargo Forum India (ACFI) shares, “The 2024 budget announcements present numerous opportunities for the Indian air cargo industry. The Indian freight forwarding community views the 2024 budget with a mixture of optimism and strategic planning, recognizing numerous initiatives that align with their aspirations for growth, efficiency, and global competitiveness. The huge allocation of 1.48 Cr crore in Skilling and Education will create a more skilled workforce bringing more efficiency to the Logistics Industry. The significant infrastructure investments will improve capacity building for all Logistics infrastructure in the country bringing further down cost of operations and quicker movement of goods. The relaxation in export-import periods for components sent for repair in the MRO industry can reduce aircraft downtime, which is beneficial for air cargo operations. Financial support for new employees and MSMEs can bolster the industry’s human resources and supply chain. E-commerce hubs and leasing support will streamline operations and increase fleet availability. Tax reductions and higher disposable incomes can stimulate demand, and industrial parks will provide advanced logistics infrastructure. Collectively, these measures are likely to drive substantial growth and development the Logistics industry, positioning it for a more competitive and dynamic future.”

KK Agarwal, CMD, CJ Darcl Logistics says, “The Union Budget 2024-25 comes with a forward-looking approach to bolster India’s logistics and infrastructure sectors. The union budget emphasised on capital expenditure of 3.4% of GDP, showcasing the government’s determination towards development of infrastructure. This significant expenditure will promote the development of new economic activity, improve transportation accessibility, and lower transportation expenses, which will support the resurgence of our country’s competitiveness. Moreover, Critical Road Connectivity projects like Patna-Purnea & Buxar-Bhagalpur Expressway along with the Industrial node at Gaya on the Amritsar – Kolkata Industrial Corridor, Sanction of twelve industrial parks under the National Industrial Corridor Development Programme, are particularly noteworthy. These initiatives will promote regional connectivity contribute to economic activities in the eastern region and epitomize the spirit of ‘Vikas bhi, Virasat bhi’. The announced reforms in the shipping industry and strategic focus on energy transition and emission targets for ‘hard to abate’ industries demonstrate the futuristic thinking balanced with the economic growth and environmental responsibility. This holistic approach aligns perfectly with our vision for a resilient, efficient, and technologically advanced logistics ecosystem. Looking ahead, we will continue to provide cooperation to the government for developing a sustainable, transparent, and digital logistics system. Together, we can position India as a global logistics powerhouse, further strengthening our sector in alignment with the ambitious goals set forth in this budget.”