Air cargo handling process is a crucial and indispensable part of an airport, airline, and/or a freight forwarder who provides cargo handling and transportation services. And, to qualitatively manage the process, certain prerequisites must be met, such as efficient strategies and procedures, competent cargo staff, cargo information systems, technology and world-class infrastructure with enough capacity and excellence in process management. Here, we take a look at the state-of-the-art infrastructure and world-class cargo facilities at the country’s prominent air hubs for proper transport, storage and delivery to the end-users.
Ritika Arora Bhola
Although the air cargo industry has scaled up its capabilities, collaboration and readiness in the past couple of months, and COVID-19 vaccines undergoing worldwide distribution, we still live in a world with a lot of unknowns. As new vaccine requirements, purchase deals and regulatory approvals are announced every day, the air cargo value chain stakeholders together need to work hand-in-hand to be agile enough to deliver vaccines safely at scale.
In order to continue to improve preparedness, vaccine manufacturers need to share information needed by LSPs/service vendors as early as possible to allow them to make needed investment in time, while air cargo players should ensure their sub-contractors and supply chain partners receive the right level of information as early as possible, and together the industry needs to adopt, or reinforce if already adopted, a local air cargo community approach to strengthen collaboration at levels across the system.
Meanwhile, security and cyber-security measures need to be put in place to avoid theft and counterfeit; dry ice, active containers, trained staff, and cold chain space availability should be secured early; and infrastructure investment decisions should be made as early as possible.
Visibility also needed to be improved— with stakeholders mapping out their capabilites; the use of tracking and monitoring devices and the roll-out of digital solutions.
Delhi International Airport Ltd (DIAL)
DIAL recorded over ‘One Million’ MT air cargo annually, with over 20 freighters providing continued services to and from Delhi Airport. The airport holds 30 per cent of India’s total air cargo business.
Cargo Infrastructure:
Additionally, Delhi Airport's QR code-based e-Gate Pass facility will provide an automated process for paper documentation and reduce human interface, thereby making the fast movement of imported vaccine deliveries.
Above that, Delhi Airport’s dedicated Transhipment Excellence Centre spread over an area of 6,500 sq mt at the airside will help in the seamless and efficient movement of vaccines through transshipment.
Delhi Airport also has dedicated terminal facilities to handle express cargo shipments. With seamless operations and simplified procedures in place, processing of express cargo is performed in a few hours.
As a cargo hub airport of the region, DIAL has developed first-of-its-kind on-airport warehousing facilityin India— Airport Cargo Logistics Centre (ACLC) with over 30,000 sq mt of warehousing space.
GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd (GHIAL)
GMR Hyderabad Air Cargo (GHAC), the 100% subsidiary of GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd (GHIAL) is located at the epicentre of the vaccine production region of the country, and hence is a key stakeholder in the global vaccine logistics, supported by relevant facilities such as modern temperature-sensitive pharma and vaccine storage and processing zones.
GMR Hyderabad Air Cargo Terminal at GHIAL is India's first integrated cargo terminal with international and domestic pharma zone under the same roof. In fact, it is among the most awarded cargo terminals in the country for its infrastructure and operational excellence.
Cargo Infrastructure:
In addition, GHAC is upgrading its infrastructure to double the capacity on both landside and airside to handle the upcoming surge in volumes. The cargo handler has asp taken several paperless initiatives— e-Reception, e-OOC, e-LEO, e-AWB, etc. to minimise human interface and provide contact-less service to customer.
Bangalore International Airport Ltd (BIAL)
Bangalore International Airport Ltd (BIAL) builds, owns and operates the Kempegowda International Airport Bengaluru (KIAB). The airport plays a key role in driving the economy of the Karnataka region and adjoining areas— offering a wide air-route network, with over 37 passenger airlines and 14 cargo airlines connecting Bengaluru to the rest of the world. It is currently the busiest airport in South India and the third largest in the country.
The total cargo handling capacity at BIAL is 570,000 MT— the highest cargo capacity at an airport in South India.
Cargo Infrastructure:
Most recently, BIAL inaugurated the country’s first dedicated Express Courier Terminal which housea some of world’s best-known courier players such as DHL Express, UPS, EICI, and FedEx, thereby offering additional benefits to the Bengaluru Metropolitan Region and its customers.
Mumbai International Airport Ltd (MIAL)
GVK MIAL managed Chhatrapati Shivaji Maharaj International Airport (CSMIA) has been working efficiently in providing vital support in transporting essential cargo, and now COVID vaccine movements. CSMIA has the largest gateway for pharma and agro products in India with massive airport-based cold chain facilities operated by its business partner Cargo Service Centre (CSC), the leading cargo handling service provider in India, which also tops in pharma cargo operations in the country. It is the largest airport-based pharma facility in Asia that can hold capacity of pharma cargo meant for 8 dedicated cargo freighters.
MIAL is also India’s largest hub for Envirotainer movements with over 60 power outlets for EXIM shipments and an exclusive Envirotainer Stationdealing with storage and maintenance of both e-type and t-type active containers. Since start of operations, the Envirotainer Station has processed over 2000 active containers.
Cargo Infrastructure:
Additionally, MIAL has an indigenous temperature-controlled transport solution Cooltainer for transport of pharmaceutical products on the airport tarmac. The Cooltainer can accommodate two main-deck or two lower-deck pallets or a combination of both offering temperature range of +15°C to +25°C or +2°C to +8°C as per product requirement.
Ecom Express Limited, India’s sole pure-play B2C e-commerce logistics provider as of the Financial Year 2024, has introduced a new brand identity, underscoring its commitment to customer-centricity. This rebranding reflects a focus on addressing specific customer needs, prioritising customer-facing metrics, and integrating innovative technology across its nationwide express logistics network. The goal is to enhance speed, agility, and network reach, ensuring a customer-focused approach. The rebranding includes a dynamic logo and a refreshed visual identity, symbolising Ecom Express’s pursuit of excellence. The new logo features a forward-moving arrow within a square, representing the company’s dedication to delivery. The letter "E" in the logo stands for Expression, Innovation, and Progress, while the bold magenta colour signifies bravery, self-expression, and strength. This vibrant magenta reintroduction reflects Ecom Express's renewed commitment to customers, partners, and team members, as the company aims to simplify and democratise logistics for all. Ajay Chitkara, CEO and MD of Ecom Express, elaborated on the transformation, stating, “Our refreshed brand identity reaffirms our customer-first approach as we continue to integrate technology and innovation to provide reliable, high-speed services with the widest network reach. This transformation also underscores our commitment to our employees and delivery partners, who are essential to our business.” The new logo embodies Ecom Express’s dedication to its core values, focusing on customer welfare and fostering a diverse, inclusive environment. This rebranding signifies a promise to redefine logistics through advanced technology, making life easier for all types of customers.
The Federation of Freight Forwarders’ Associations in India (FFFAI) held its 6th EC Meeting for the term 2021-23 on May 27 and 28 in Bengaluru. The meeting was attended by the Office Bearers and 28 Member Association representative of FFFAI from across the country, there were many issues discussed and updates provided concerning customs, CBLR, EDI, Service Tax/GST, logistics, air cargo, sea cargo, skill development,importance of social media which FFFAI has expanded recently, technology developments, etc. The special focus of the 6th EC meeting was the updates on forthcoming 24th Biennial Convention of FFFAI to be held from August 12 to 14, 2022 in Chennai with the theme LOGISTICS RESHAPE, EMBRACE AND SURGE IN THE DIGITAL ERA. At this EC meeting, FFFAI also implemented Digital Learning platform for members and next generation for e-learning. It has been decided that FFFAI would initiate FIATA eFBL here in India to benefit the trade, which empowers customs brokers, freight forwarders and logistics service providers. In addition, updates on the recently held FIATA HQ Meet was also provided by the concerned members of FFFAI. FFFAI members present at this EC meeting stressed upon enhancing productivity on ICEGATE for trade facilitation and Ease of Doing Business. The FFFAI members also urged for creating a dedicated portal for LSP integration. As regard to skill development initiatives, IIFF’s (training arm of FFFAI) past and forthcoming training programmes (both online and classroom/physical) for the entire logistics industry were presented at the EC meeting. In addition, FFFAI’s various initiatives on capacity building through technology/IT also discussed withadequate importance. Recent activities of FFFAI Women’s Wing including organising interactive meetings with Government of India officials and industry experts were highlighted at this meeting which drew huge appreciation from the members. The members committed to expand the activities of the Women’s Wing in all the 28 member association locations to empower/encourage the women logistics practitioners. At this EC meeting FFFAI has signed an MoU with the National Institute of Industrial Engineering (NITIE) with an objective of skilling the aspiring candidates looking for opportunities in the logistics sector. Notably, a special session was organised at this 6th EC Meeting where N Sivasailam, former Special Secretary (Logistics), Ministry of Commerce, Government of India was present to address the FFFAI members and highlight the recent initiatives of the government in strengthening the logistics infrastructure, thereby leading in increase of international trade through multimodal connectivity and faster cargo clearance. He projected the ambitious growth potential of the logistics industry in India with a strong collaboration between government and industry people. Also speaking on the occasion was Bani Bhattacharya, IRS, who interacted with members of FFFAI on various initiatives of CBIC for the trade facilitation without human intervention. FFFAI Chairman Shankar Shinde thanked all the 28 associations for their support and appreciated the contribution of CBIC/DG systems trade facilitation measures. FFFAI Member Associations are: 1. Ahmedabad Custom Brokers' Association2. Aurangabad Customs House Agents Association3. Association of Custom House Agents Thiruvanthapuram4. Bangalore Custom House Agents Association5. Brihnamumbai Custom Brokers Association6. Calcutta Customs House Agents Association7. Chennai Customs House Agents Association8. Cochin Customs Brokers' Association9. Coimbatore Customs House and Steamer Agents Association10. Custom Brokers Association Hyderabad11. Delhi Customs Brokers Association12. Goa Custom Brokers Association13.Indore Customs House Agents Association14. The Kakinada Customs Brokers Association15. Kandla Custom Brokers Association16. Kanpur Customs Brokers Association17. Ludhiana Customs House Agents Association18. Mangalore Customs House Agents Association19. Mundra Customs Brokers Association20. Nagpur Customs House Agents Association21. Nashik Customs House Agents Association22. Nadia Custom Brokers Association23. Pipavav Custom Brokers Association24. Pune Customs House Agents Association25. Rajasthan Customs House Agents Association26.Tuticorin Custom Brokers Association27.Visakhapatnam Cusotms Brokers' Association28.West Bengal Custom House Agents Society FFFAI welcomes Women in Logistics/Youth in Logistics to participate on FFFAI forums and also invites membership application form logistics service providers in industry as this is a big national and international forum to network.
The Uttar Pradesh government is set to develop a multi-modal logistics hub (MMLH) in Greater Noida’s Dadri, investing Rs 7,064 crore to support its $1 trillion economy goal. This hub will cover 823 acres, with a core development area spanning 455 acres. Key developments include commercial and administrative facilities over 17.5 acres, a rail yard, and other projects across 350 acres. Under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s directives, a detailed action plan has been designed to expedite these initiatives. The Dadri MMLH aims to become a world-class freight handling facility, functioning as a dry port to ensure the swift transit of goods and raw materials. This project is poised to be India's largest logistics hub. Located on the eastern and western dedicated freight corridors, it will serve as a central hub for container handling, warehousing, cold storage, processing, de-stuffing, stuffing, and value-added packing. Providing seamless rail connectivity, the hub will feature rail platforms, customs clearance facilities, cargo segregation areas, truck parking zones, and extensive green spaces. The project is being developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, supervised by the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority and adhering to the guidelines of the National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT). The Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority has prepared the Master Detailed Project Report (DPR) for constructing the approach track and Rail Over Rail (ROR) bridge from New Dadri station to the MMLH boundary. The Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India (DFCCIL) has approved the DPR for railway tracks and terminal stations within the MMLH. Additionally, the tender documentation for land acquisition and signaling processes for the approach track has been finalized. Concurrently, the development of trunk infrastructure, including boundary work, roads, canals, bridges, utility relocation, and water and power supply, is progressing through various phases.
ESR India, the largest APAC focused industrial and logistics real estate platform, has inked a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Government of Tamil Nadu for a potential investment of INR 550 crores. The MOU is signed for the launch of two industrial parks in Kancheepuram and Krishnagiri districts of the state over the next five years. Once fully operational, the two projects have the potential to create over 4,400 jobs in the facility, that shall boost the overall socio-economic growth in the region. The MoU was signed at the Investment Conclave 2021 conference held today. It will facilitate ESR India’s proposed investment at Kancheepuram and Krishnagiri industrial parks by helping in streamlining land acquisition, approvals, clearances, and administrative processes as per existing policies, rules, and regulations of the Government of Tamil Nadu. The policy and regulatory reforms unveiled in recent times has accentuated the entry of international institutional players and has set new benchmarks for industrial developments in the country. Commenting on the development, Abhijit Malkani, CEO and Country Head, ESR India said, “We are delighted to announce our affiliation with the state government. The Government of Tamil Nadu has been very supportive in encouraging industrial developments in the state by creating a favourable business climate for industrial players. The MoU will see ESR invest INR 550 crores to develop industrial parks in Tamil Nadu, offering 1,800 direct and 2,600 indirect job opportunities in the facility.” “Our goals are aligned with the vision of the Tamil Nadu government, to create avenues to increase business and trade inclusion opportunities and employment towards garnering better economic growth in the region,” he further stated. ESR India is currently present across 9 cities and 15 locations with a total GFA of 18 mn sq ft. These state-of-the-art facilities will be developed upholding the best practices for ESG and sustainability.
The Uttar Pradesh government is set to develop a multi-modal logistics hub (MMLH) in Greater Noida’s Dadri, investing Rs 7,064 crore to support its $1 trillion economy goal. This hub will cover 823 acres, with a core development area spanning 455 acres. Key developments include commercial and administrative facilities over 17.5 acres, a rail yard, and other projects across 350 acres. Under Chief Minister Yogi Adityanath’s directives, a detailed action plan has been designed to expedite these initiatives. The Dadri MMLH aims to become a world-class freight handling facility, functioning as a dry port to ensure the swift transit of goods and raw materials. This project is poised to be India's largest logistics hub. Located on the eastern and western dedicated freight corridors, it will serve as a central hub for container handling, warehousing, cold storage, processing, de-stuffing, stuffing, and value-added packing. Providing seamless rail connectivity, the hub will feature rail platforms, customs clearance facilities, cargo segregation areas, truck parking zones, and extensive green spaces. The project is being developed under the Public-Private Partnership (PPP) model, supervised by the Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority and adhering to the guidelines of the National Industrial Corridor Development and Implementation Trust (NICDIT). The Greater Noida Industrial Development Authority has prepared the Master Detailed Project Report (DPR) for constructing the approach track and Rail Over Rail (ROR) bridge from New Dadri station to the MMLH boundary. The Dedicated Freight Corridor Corporation of India (DFCCIL) has approved the DPR for railway tracks and terminal stations within the MMLH. Additionally, the tender documentation for land acquisition and signaling processes for the approach track has been finalized. Concurrently, the development of trunk infrastructure, including boundary work, roads, canals, bridges, utility relocation, and water and power supply, is progressing through various phases.
Trade shows are mission-critical, high-investment events where logistics execution directly influences marketing ROI. Exhibitors spend months preparing for a few days on the floor, since a single missed delivery window can jeopardise the entire programme. In this environment, Less-Than-Truckload (LTL) trade show logistics is no longer just transportation; it is an orchestration of timing, compliance, risk control, and venue-specific expertise. While standard LTL carriers can handle general freight, elite trade show shippers excel because they are built for the ecosystem — understanding drayage, marshalling yards, target windows, live-loading rules, equipment constraints, and the high-value nature of exhibits. This updated guide unpacks the differentiators that set the best providers apart, enhanced with additional dimensions such as KPIs, risk mitigation frameworks, technology adoption, sustainability practices, and a practical vendor-evaluation checklist. The Key Differentiators of Elite Trade Show Shippers When shipping general freight, a standard LTL carrier may be sufficient. However, event logistics demand a higher level of specialised service. The top trade show shippers possess four key differentiators that distinguish them from the rest. Proactive and Specialised Support Trade shows operate on rigid move-in schedules tied to booth size, dock flow, and decorator rules. The strongest providers deploy dedicated trade show teams who can interpret show manuals, coordinate with decorators, and time deliveries to avoid re-handling fees. Best-in-class partners also: Pre-audit documentation and labels to avoid show-site rejections Manage drayage coordination to reduce dwell and material-handling charges Offer pre-receiving and staging at regional facilities for smoother Day-1 move-ins This advisory-driven model transforms logistics from a cost center into a risk-mitigation service. Flexible Coordination and Network Access Because no two events are alike, trade show logistics demand configurable access to LTL, FTL, hot-shot, air, and international capacity. Top providers match service levels, route constraints, and budget requirements by tapping into broad asset and partner networks. A sophisticated network allows for: Expedited or guaranteed-capacity moves for high-stakes shows Cost-effective options for booth materials that can stage early Lane-specific equipment (air-ride, liftgate, climate-controlled) This flexibility becomes essential during peak show seasons when capacity is tight and timelines narrow. Guaranteed Performance and Asset Protection Event deadlines are immovable. Leading providers commit to guaranteed on-time service, narrow ETA bands, and contingency planning across linehaul and last-mile execution. They also emphasise exhibit protection through: Air-ride suspension fleets Strapping, padding, and vibration-control practices Secure transport protocols for prototypes and LED/AV assets With show participation costs rising, damage and delay prevention become competitive differentiators. End-to-End Visibility and Services Real-time visibility is no longer optional. Tocay, exhibitors rely on it to make staffing, booth-build, and drayage decisions. The best LTL partners deliver: Live tracking from pickup to booth delivery API connectivity with exhibitor dashboards Pre-emptive exception alerts and delay recovery paths For international events, leading providers integrate customs documentation, Carnet handling, temporary import permits, and venue-specific rules, ensuring frictionless handoffs across borders. What Are the Best LTL Logistics Companies for Trade Shows? Several providers exemplify these differentiators. The following firms are selected based on their demonstrated strength in specialised show support, performance-oriented service design, event fluency, flexible coordination and comprehensive offerings that cover pre-show to teardown. 1. Green River Logistics Solutions A brokerage-led model with deep carrier reach, making it ideal for exhibitors with varied lane structures. Key strengths: Highly personalised coordination and single-point-of-contact support Flexible equipment sourcing — LTL, flatbed, refrigerated, heavy haul Real-time updates and precise timing for fragile builds 2. XPO Logistics A multinational leader with a controlled linehaul network and a dedicated Trade Show Desk. Key strengths: Tight schedule integrity Venue-specific coordination and dock navigation Strong performance management systems. 3. TWI Group A global exhibition logistics specialist excelling in international customs and venue compliance. Key strengths: ATA Carnet expertise and cross-border support On-site liaisons at major venues High-touch service model for global exhibitors 4. Averitt A time-definite, reliability-driven carrier focused on window compliance. Key strengths: Guaranteed performance Expertise with marshaling yards and dock appointments Rapid recovery for last-minute constraints 5. TTI Logistics A specialist for fragile and custom builds requiring maximum protection. Key strengths: Air-ride fleets and vibration-controlled handling Precision timing for target-move-ins Advanced security protocols Comparing the Top LTL Logistics Providers for Trade Shows These providers excel in different areas. This table offers a quick comparison of their key service features to help you align their strengths with your specific needs. New Strategic Enhancements Added for a Modern Exhibitor’s Playbook Technology Advancements Worth Evaluating AI-assisted ETA predictions Digital drayage coordination tools IoT-enabled condition monitoring for AV and prototype freight Automated warehouse cut-off compliance checks Risk-Mitigation Practices That Matter Pre-show risk audits Contingency rerouting plans Venue-specific compliance checklists High-value cargo insurance design Sustainability Expectations from Today’s Exhibitors Low-emission or EV linehaul and last-mile options Carbon-neutral freight programs Reusable or recyclable crating solutions Emissions dashboards linked to booth shipments Performance Metrics That Define Best-in-Class Providers On-time delivery to target windows Damage-free shipment percentage Visibility uptime SLA Drayage handoff accuracy Exception-resolution response time How to Vet Your Trade Show Logistics Partner Applying the key differentiators includes asking potential partners the right questions. When your program includes international stops, ask about their documentation process, how they manage Carnets and how visibility will work across handoffs. The following can further validate fit and execution discipline: What is your detailed experience with my venue and decorator? Can you guarantee delivery within target-window constraints? What risk-mitigation plan is activated if my freight misses staging cutoff? What specialised equipment will you use for fragile or custom exhibits? How do you integrate with drayage contractors and marshaling yards? Which visibility tools and tracking integrations are available? Can you manage international customs documentation end-to-end? What sustainability options can be applied to my show calendar? Your Partner Is Your Most Critical Exhibit A logistics provider is more than a freight handler; they are the enabler of your presence on the show floor. The right LTL partner combines timing discipline, technical fluency, equipment strength, and venue intelligence to protect your brand and maximise your event ROI. Elite trade show shippers don’t just move freight; they orchestrate flawless show execution.
The expansion of Dammam Port in Saudi Arabia has taken a significant step towards strengthening trade relations between India and the Gulf region. The enhanced infrastructure and capacity of the port are set to benefit businesses and industries on both sides, facilitating smoother trade and commerce. The expansion of Dammam Port opens up new opportunities for Indian businesses to engage in import and export activities with the Gulf nations. It also serves as a strategic gateway for goods traveling to and from India, further improving the logistics and transportation landscape for businesses. The project showcases the commitment of both India and Saudi Arabia to enhance economic ties and boost bilateral trade. The increased port capacity will help meet the growing demand for trade between the two regions, ultimately contributing to the economic growth and prosperity of both nations.
Air India is setting its sights on a promising future as the exclusive carrier for TATA's iPhone exports. This strategic partnership between the renowned Indian airline and the tech giant TATA promises to boost India's manufacturing and export capabilities. The collaboration will enable Air India to become the sole carrier for TATA's iPhone exports, facilitating the efficient transport of these popular devices to international markets. With a reputation for reliability and global reach, Air India is poised to play a crucial role in TATA's supply chain. The move not only strengthens the relationship between two major Indian companies but also underlines India's growing importance in the global technology and manufacturing sectors. Air India's role as the exclusive carrier for iPhone exports is expected to generate significant revenue for the airline and enhance India's position as a hub for high-tech exports.
