Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) announced total cargo handled in 2023 coupled with a 12% year-on-year growth in the total number of cargo ATMs demonstrates a solid pattern of growth, cementing CSMIA as a key enabler to the global supply chain. This accomplishment reflects the airport’s ongoing commitment to handling increasing volumes with efficiency and versatility. Pharmaceuticals, engineering goods, automobiles, e-commerce, and perishables comprise of major types of goods handled by CSMIA’s cargo facility. Among the vast range of products transported on the international fronts, the top three categories encompass automobiles, pharmaceuticals, and agricultural cargo. Whereas the domestic front saw top cargo categories as consol cargo, pharmaceuticals, e-commerce, and post office (PO) mail. These categories reflect the airport’s proficiency in handling a diverse range of goods. Notably, CSMIA experienced a 12% year-on-year growth in the total number of ATMs concerning air cargo operations.
The e-commerce boom significantly influenced cargo operations at CSMIA. The festive season of 2023 registered 87% YOY growth of e-commerce shipments. The demand for perishable items has also witnessed a significant uptick. Export Mangoes achieved a record-breaking volume of 4,700 metric tons, demonstrating a remarkable year-over-year growth of 318%. Additionally, overall agricultural products have experienced a notable year-over-year growth of 44%. In a groundbreaking feat, CSMIA also successfully managed its inaugural consignment of frozen ready-to-serve food products, such as Idli and Vada, through specialized va-Q-tec containers to Amsterdam.
The international cargo volumes handled by CSMIA showcased a composition with 55% representing exports and 45% representing imports. Globally, London, Frankfurt, Dubai, Chicago, and Amsterdam emerged as the top 5 International destinations receiving cargo from CSMIA, while on the domestic front, Delhi, Bangalore, Chennai, Kolkata, and Ahmedabad held the same distinction. Notably, Emirates, Qatar, and Cathay Pacific, among the international airlines, along with Indigo, Blue Dart, and Air India as domestic carriers, emerged on the forefront of handling the highest cargo volumes at CSMIA. This further reinforces the airport’s strategic position as a key facilitator in both international and domestic airfreight operations.
In response to the growing cargo demands, CSMIA is proactively enhancing its infrastructure. The expansion of warehouse capacity and the upgrade of IT systems aim to increase efficiency, ultimately minimizing dwell time. The introduction of a new PEB structure in the import section not only bolsters capacity but also optimizes space utilization. Additionally, the recently implemented Digital Docket Delivery (D-Cube) for import gate pass system accelerates online processing, contributing to a reduction in both paper usage and cargo dwell time.
Along with several infrastructural upgrades, CSMIA is the first Indian airport to launch the Air Cargo Community System Adani MIAL Air Exchange (AMAX), revolutionizing cargo operations with SOPs, integrated systems, and digitization. Mobile applications, AMAX and Turant offer transparent, paperless, and digital operations, eliminating the need for physical copies in export consignments. E-Airwaybill, e-carting order, e-CSD, e-delivery orders, and e-gate passes are seamlessly implemented, ensuring timely processing. The airport also pioneered the Air Cargo Community portal in India, enhancing operational efficiency and promoting improved supply chain planning.
Continuing into the future, CSMIA looks forward to upholding its commitment to overseeing cargo operations with optimal efficiency and timeliness. This ensures the meticulous delivery of valuable goods to the recipients with utmost care throughout the process.