Category Archives: Aviation

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 …

Amit Maheshwari, Founder & CEO, Softlink Global said, “Adopting advanced technologies in logistics often faces hurdles like substantial initial costs and resistance to change. However, the long-term gains—such as enhanced efficiency, streamlined operations and improved accuracy—far outweigh these challenges. Organisations can overcome cost barriers through phased implementations, focusing on critical areas first. Resistance to change can be mitigated with clear communication, robust training programs and emphasising the tangible benefits for employees and customers alike. By addressing these issues, the industry can embrace innovation, boosting overall competitiveness.”

Sunil Kohli, MD, Rahat Cargo said, “To achieve optimal efficiencies and productive outcomes on the desired levels, it’s imperative that the logistics industry must opt for latest technical and digital tools available such as Paperless processing, Internet of Things(IoT), Artificial Intelligence(AI), Machine Learning(ML), Drones and Robotics technologies etc which would require the industry to invest heavily on training and development programme to their skilled workforce. To further ensure highly productive results out of such technologies, it’s essential that the logistics industry should be equipped with adequate infrastructure which covers smooth roads & state-of-the-art airports to overcome the critical challenges namely capacity shortages, delays in transportation and congestion etc. Since the industry expresses its reluctance towards change due to fiscal implications, the government therefore is expected to step in to provide all possible monetary subsidies apart from infrastructural support to the stakeholders.”

Vipin Vohra, Chairman, Continental Carriers said, “Adopting new technologies in logistics faces hurdles like high implementation costs and resistance to change. However, the long-term efficiency gains far outweigh the initial investment. Industry players must focus on phased implementation, workforce training, and fostering a digital-first mindset. Collaboration with tech providers and government incentives can further ease adoption, ensuring enhanced operational efficiency, cost savings, and seamless cargo movement in a competitive landscape.”

  Kale Logistics Solutions (Kale) has partnered with El Dorado International Airport in Bogota,  in South America, to maximise its cargo operations through the transition to a digital air cargo community system. El Dorado International Airport (BOG) in Bogota, Colombia, facilitates nearly 0.76 million metric tons of cargo movement in Latin America and is one of the 20 most connected airports in the world: offering non-stop international flights to the Americas, Caribbean, and the Middle East. “We are excited to pioneer this digital infrastructure at our airport, we believe the ACS will deliver the efficiency, sustainability, resiliency and visibility benefits to the cargo community, as we aim to build our systems with cutting-edge technology,” said Mr. Fabio Marques da Silva, Chief Operating Officer, at El Dorado International Airport. Kale has been working with the cargo community in Bogota to ensure that all stakeholders are prepared for the development and ready to benefit from the streamlined system. “We at Kale are thrilled to pioneer the development of South America’s first Airport Cargo Community System (ACS) at Bogota. Latin America presents a vast, untapped opportunity for comprehensive digital transformation in logistics. Starting this journey in Bogota, a city that bridges diverse worlds, is truly exhilarating,” said Amar More, President of Kale Info Solutions.”

Air India has signed up Menzies Aviation to provide cargo handling services at four locations. The deal will see Menzies provide cargo warehouse services at Kuwait International Airport (KWI), Dallas Fort Worth International Airport (DFW), Sydney Airport (SYD) and Melbourne Airport (MEL). Teams at the four locations are likely to handle approximately 9,000 tonnes of cargo in the first 12 months of the new agreement, said reports. The tie-up is part of a wider deal that includes a mixture of passenger, ramp, de-icing and cleaning services at London Heathrow (LHR), Copenhagen Airport (CPH), Toronto Pearson International Airport (YYZ), Kuwait International Airport (KWI) and Los Angeles International Airport (LAX). Last year, the Gurugram-based airline handled 250,000 tonnes of cargo and in 2023 added 100 aircraft to an existing order for 470 new aircraft.

Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (KIAB/BLR Airport), operated by Bangalore International Airport Limited (BIAL), has partnered with Menzies Aviation to redefine domestic cargo operations with the launch of India’s largest Greenfield Domestic Cargo Terminal (DCT) in terms of designed capacity. This 245,000 square feet state-of-the-art facility signifies a major milestone in BLR Airport’s cargo handling capabilities, offering enhanced infrastructure and streamlined processes to meet the growing demands of the domestic market. It will play a key role in connecting industries, strengthening supply chains, and driving innovation toward a more sustainable future for domestic cargo and regional trade, positioning BLR Airport as a leader in cargo handling. Bigger, Better and Advanced Spanning over 7 acres, the DCT features a peak handling capacity of approximately 360,000 metric tons, with a potential to expand to 400,000 metric tons. With around 42truck docks, more than 400 specially designed cargo bins, conveyors aligned with X-ray machines, approximately 30 ULD build-up and breakdown stations, along with real-time data capture using 40 handheld terminals and self–service kiosks for agents, the facility will ensure seamless cargo movement while reducing turnaround times. Equipped with cutting-edge technology and digital solutions, the terminal introduces upgrades like real-time shipment tracking, data analytics tools, and enhanced communication systems integrated with barcodes and QR codes. This integration enables seamless data exchange with airline systems, improves process timelines, and reduces human touchpoints, ensuring faster and safer cargo handling. The emphasis on digitalisation will streamline operations, enhance visibility across the supply chain, and elevate the overall cargo handling experience for airlines, cargo agents, and end users. Special Cargo at DCT BLR Airport has established a strong reputation as a leading hub for perishables. The airport is already …

Kamesh Peri, CEO, Celebi Delhi Cargo Terminal Management India said, “The industry’s traditional image as less glamorous compared to sectors like technology and finance deters potential candidates, especially younger professionals. The skills gap is further exacerbated by the rapid technological advancements in logistics, which require new, tech-savvy skills that current job seekers often lack. High employee turnover and the rising cost of labor also add to the recruitment challenges, making it difficult for companies to retain talent. To address these issues, there is a pressing need for targeted training programs, improved employer branding, and strategic HR practices that align with the evolving demands of the logistics sector. In the Indian logistics market, the challenges in hiring trained professionals are multi-faceted. Firstly, there is a significant shortage of qualified candidates, with the sector struggling to fill roles due to a scarcity of skilled talent. This gap is compounded by a highly competitive job market where specialised knowledge in supply chain management, technology integration, and regulatory compliance is in high demand. Additionally,      

Jalpa H Vithalani, Director, Global Aviation Services said, “Adopting new technologies in air cargo faces multiple constraints, including high implementation costs, integration challenges with legacy systems and regulatory complexities. Additionally, industry-wide awareness is needed to highlight the long-term cost savings, efficiency gains and security enhancements that digital transformation offers. Investments in training and standardised digital infrastructure will drive widespread adoption. However, the air cargo industry is moving towards 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.”

Vandana Singh, Director, Global Corporate Key Account Management, Saudia Cargo said, “The airfreight industry faces several challenges, including high implementation costs, fragmented infrastructure and a lack of standardised platforms. However, as emerging technologies demonstrate not only their investment potential but also long-term benefits—such as increased profitability, enhanced operational efficiency and improved customer satisfaction—they are gaining widespread acceptance. Additionally, educating industry stakeholders before and after integration will be crucial for seamless adoption and sustained success.”