Category Archives: Aviation

According to the International Air Transport Association (IATA), total global air cargo demand, measured in cargo tonne-kilometers (CTK), rose by 3.2 per cent year on year (YoY) in January this year (3.6 per cent for international operations) for the eighteenth consecutive month of growth. Capacity, measured in available cargo tonne-kilometers (ACTK), increased by 6.8 per cent YoY in the month (7.3 per cent for international operations). “January marked 18 consecutive months of growth for air cargo, but the month’s 3.2 per cent YoY growth is a moderation from double-digit peaks in 2024. Similarly, yields, while still above January 2024 levels, saw a 9.9 per cent decline from December as cargo load factors also declined by an average of 1.5 percentage points,” said Willie Walsh, IATA’s director general. While external factors such as trade growth, declining fuel costs and expanding e-commerce remain positive for air cargo, it is important to closely watch the evolution of market conditions at this time. In particular, the wild card is the potential for tariff-driven trade policies from the US Trump administration. Fortunately, the air cargo industry is well practiced at dealing with shifts in the operating environment,” he noted. Asia-Pacific airlines saw a 7.5-per cent YoY demand growth for air cargo in January. Capacity increased by 10.9 per cent YoY.

Apeksha Gupta, Head- Skilling, VCJ Foundation said, “Logistics and express courier companies are revolutionising last-mile deliveries by leveraging advanced technologies like AI and route optimisation software. With e-commerce booming, the last-mile sector accounts for about 28% of total logistics costs. Companies are increasingly using electric vehicles and drones to reduce carbon footprints; for instance, Amazon plans to deploy 10,000 electric delivery vans by 2030. Enhanced tracking systems also improve transparency, with real-time updates boosting customer satisfaction by 25%.”

Padma Handa, Director, Hans Infomatic said, “Recent advancements and tech innovations like platforms such as Hans Infomatic’s Cargo Community System centralise data exchange, enabling real-time tracking, predictive analytics, and seamless collaboration between stakeholders. This visibility at every stage enhances operational efficiency and customer trust. Blockchain further strengthens security by creating immutable, tamper-proof records for critical shipment documents, such as bills of lading and customs declarations. It eliminates fraud risks, ensures data integrity, and provides authorised stakeholders with secure access to verified information. By integrating these technologies, the industry achieves unparalleled transparency, reduced errors, and streamlined processes. The result is a more efficient, secure, and trustworthy air cargo ecosystem, meeting the demands of an increasingly digitalized supply chain.”

Vandana Singh, Director of Global Corporate Key Account Management, Saudia Cargo said, “With growing emphasis on sustainability, the industry is expected to implement effective environmental improvements without compromising quality or performance. One key approach is optimising operational strategies, particularly in freight delivery. Leveraging advanced AI and machine learning can significantly enhance efficiency by analysing historical data, weather patterns, and air traffic conditions to determine the most optimal routes and flight plans. This data-driven approach helps reduce fuel consumption, lower emissions and improve overall sustainability. Beyond fuel efficiency gains through intelligent traffic management, decision-makers must also prioritise strategic planning to achieve long-term environmental and operational benefits. Air cargo businesses must navigate the dual challenge of maintaining efficiency while adopting environmentally sustainable practices to ensure timely deliveries.”

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.”

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 …

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 …