CEVA Logistics has expanded operations with the addition of a new transpacific air charter operation as it looks to cater for demand between China and the US. The new service operates between Wuxi in China and Chicago in the US utilising a Boeing 747 freighter three times per week. The first flight left Wuxi earlier today (28 March) carrying around 100 tons of cargo. The service will cater for a range of cargo types including, industrial equipment, electronics, oversized cargo, e-commerce goods, and apparel. CEVA said Wuxi airport covers the Yangtze River Delta Economic Development Zone and serves not only global companies with manufacturing sites on the outskirts of Shanghai, but also Chinese companies in industrial, technology and e-commerce sectors. Cargo can also be transported from Southeast Asia to Wuxi, the forwarder said.

Softlink Academy has signed an MoU with MITCON to boost expertise in logistics technology. This collaboration is part of LogiSKILL, a key program under Softlink Academy. By combining Softlink Academy’s expertise in logistics technology with MITCON’s experience in skill development, this initiative aims to equip aspiring professionals with practical logistics expertise that will make them ready for jobs and careers in logistics. Students will be trained on advanced technology and provided with industry-recognized certifications on program completion.  Softlink Academy also includes LogiEXPERT, a globally recognized certification that validates expertise in logistics software and operations, helping professionals gain a competitive edge. Additionally, LogiLEARN fosters partnerships with educational institutions, integrating logistics-focused courses with industry exposure. Amit Maheshwari, Founder & CEO Softlink Global said, “Softlink Academy is committed to empowering young professionals with the right skills to drive logistics forward. Partnering with MITCON allows us to expand our mission and ensure that more students receive industry-focused, technology-driven training that prepares them for success.” Anand Chalwade, Managing Director, MITCON, added, “Our goal at MITCON has always been to create career opportunities through skill-based education. Collaborating with Softlink Academy enables us to strengthen logistics training and provide graduates with the expertise required for real-world employment.”

Zeeshan Mukhi, Vice President – Freight Forwarding, Subcontinent, DP World said, “Proximity to airports enables seamless cargo movement, especially for time-sensitive and high-value goods. Globally, leading hubs like Singapore Changi and Dubai World Central integrate warehouses within cargo zones, drastically reducing dwell times and enhancing trade efficiency. At DP World, we specialise in integrated, multimodal solutions that connect air, road, rail and port networks. We believe adding more warehouses near airports will streamline cargo handling and unlock new efficiencies across domestic and global trade corridors.”

Zeeshan Mukhi, Vice President – Freight Forwarding, Subcontinent, DP World said, “Proximity to airports enables seamless cargo movement, especially for time-sensitive and high-value goods. Globally, leading hubs like Singapore Changi and Dubai World Central integrate warehouses within cargo zones, drastically reducing dwell times and enhancing trade efficiency. At DP World, we specialise in integrated, multimodal solutions that connect air, road, rail and port networks. We believe adding more warehouses near airports will streamline cargo handling and unlock new efficiencies across domestic and global trade corridors.”

Vipin Vohra, Chairman, Continental Carriers said, “Building warehouses near airports is crucial to decongest terminals, streamline cargo handling and enhance supply chain efficiency. With cargo volumes set to rise under the ‘Make in India’ initiative, well-equipped airport-adjacent warehouses are essential for faster clearance, reduced dwell time, and seamless multimodal connectivity. To encourage larger participation, the government should incentivize such developments, ensuring greater investment and enhanced trade competitiveness in India’s growing logistics sector.”

C K Govil, CMD, Activair Airfreight said, “Building warehouses near airports is essential to decongest cargo terminals and streamline logistics operations. Proximity to airports ensures faster clearance, reduced turnaround times, and lower transportation costs. This infrastructure will enhance supply chain efficiency, support multimodal connectivity, and improve India’s global trade competitiveness. A well-planned airport warehousing ecosystem will also attract investments, boost employment, and facilitate ease of doing business for the logistics and air cargo industry.”

Sunil Kohli, Managing Director, Rahat Cargo said, “It is abundantly clear that location of the warehouses in the close proximity of the respective airports can go a long way in eliminating the congestion elements which keep frequently emerging due to the bunching of several flights during a particular time slot. Although many such warehouses have lately been built at the metro airports by the freight forwarders yet a need is further felt essential to have more of such warehouses established at strategic locations near the airports which may be conveniently utilised by the exporters thereby having an optimal usage of the manpower apart from saving time. It’s also advisable to have such ideally located warehouses close to all the non-metro airports which handle considerable cargo movements.”

Kamal Jain, Director, Cargomen Logistics said, “Warehouses near airports or producing and storing goods close to consumption centres’ is ideal for reducing cycle time, transportation costs and enhancing responsiveness to customer demand. However, the high cost of land and infrastructure in urban areas that to be airport vicinity often discourages businesses from setting up facilities nearby. As a result, many opt for distant, more affordable locations. While this may reduce upfront expenses, it can increase fuel costs, delivery times, and compromise service levels. A comprehensive, data-driven cost-benefit analysis—considering opportunity costs, delivery speed, manpower, fuel, and evolving customer expectations—can uncover valuable insights. In many cases, investing in facilities closer to the consumption point, despite higher real estate costs, results in faster turnaround, improved customer satisfaction, and a competitive edge. Strategic proximity often pays off in the long run.”

Jalpa H Vithalani, Director, Global Aviation Services said, “Building warehouses near airports is essential to alleviate congestion and streamline logistics operations, significantly improving the speed and efficiency of supply chains. Proximity to airports reduces transit times, lowers costs, and enhances overall ease of doing business, benefiting both domestic and international trade.”