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Skye Air secures $4 million in funding to expand drone logistics

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Skye Air secures $4 million in funding to expand drone logis...

Skye Air secures $4 million in funding to expand drone logistics

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June 19, 2024 • 0 Comments

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The funds will be used to expand Skye Air's operations across Gurugram and other cities, focusing on healthcare and quick-commerce deliveries. "The fresh capital will help the company expand its last-mile network across Gurugram and other cities for healthcare, e-commerce, and quick-commerce deliveries," said Ankit Kumar, Founder and CEO of Skye Air. He highlighted the potential growth of the Indian drone sector under the Modi 3.0 government, envisioning India as a global drone hub by 2030.

Maple Capital Advisors acted as exclusive financial advisors, while LexStart Partners provided legal counsel for the transaction.

Skye Air, headquartered in Delhi-NCR, offers SaaS-based autonomous logistics solutions, integrating drone deliveries into mainstream logistics for healthcare, e-commerce, quick-commerce, and agri-commodities. The company also developed Skye UTM, an advanced Unmanned Traffic Management system ensuring safe and efficient drone operations.

With this new funding, Skye Air aims to revolutionise logistics in India and set a global benchmark for drone delivery solutions.

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Amazon India to add 1,000 Eicher Electric Trucks in Major Push to Decarbonise Deliveries

Amazon India is set to introduce up to 1,000 electric trucks from Eicher into its logistics network over the next five years as the e-commerce company accelerates efforts to reduce emissions across its middle-mile and last-mile operations. The deployment will be carried out in partnership with VE Commercial Vehicles (VECV), the joint venture between Eicher Motors and Volvo Group. The companies said the electric trucks will support cargo movement between fulfilment centres, sortation hubs and delivery stations, as well as customer-facing delivery operations. As part of the initial rollout, Amazon plans to induct 50 electric trucks in logistics hubs including Delhi, Manesar and Gurugram. The vehicles will be introduced progressively through Amazon’s transport service partners. The trucks will be available in configurations ranging from 8-foot to 24-foot deck lengths, allowing Amazon to deploy them across varying payload requirements. According to the companies, the vehicles will include customised cargo layouts and support both fast and slow charging options depending on route and operational needs. The move comes as India’s e-commerce and logistics sectors face increasing pressure to adopt lower-emission freight solutions amid tightening sustainability targets and rising fuel costs. Electrification of commercial fleets has gained momentum in urban delivery operations, though adoption in medium-duty and heavy-duty trucking remains at an early stage due to infrastructure and financing challenges. Amazon has been steadily expanding its electric delivery fleet in India as part of its broader climate commitments. The company previously stated that it aimed to deploy 10,000 electric vehicles in the country by 2025 and had already crossed 6,000 EVs across more than 400 cities by 2023. In 2024, Amazon said it had surpassed the 10,000-EV milestone in India ahead of schedule, while also testing long-haul electric freight corridors for intercity transportation. Industry observers view the Eicher partnership as a significant step toward electrifying commercial freight movement in India, particularly in the growing e-commerce logistics segment where fleet utilisation levels are high and predictable delivery routes improve the feasibility of EV deployment. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.

Admin May 18, 2026 0

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TechEagle partners with ideaForge to revolutionise drone logistics

TechEagle, India’s leading drone delivery startup, has announced a strategic alliance with ideaForge Technology, a global leader in unmanned aerial vehicle (UAV) technology. This partnership aims to merge their respective strengths to advance UAV technology and drive innovation within the drone industry. ideaForge has also joined TechEagle’s recent bridge financing round as a strategic investor. The collaboration will focus on developing small, tactical, and middle-mile logistics platforms designed for dual use. These platforms will feature advanced payload capacities, high-altitude operations, and next-level autonomy, setting new benchmarks in drone logistics. Vikram Singh Meena, Founder & CEO of TechEagle, stated, “This partnership showcases the power of synergistic innovation. By combining TechEagle’s drone technology advancements with ideaForge’s UAV expertise and manufacturing capabilities, we are poised to redefine the UAV landscape. ideaForge's investment highlights their confidence in our vision. Together, we aim to enhance safety, performance, and reliability, ushering in a new era of global aerial logistics.” Ankit Mehta, CEO of ideaForge, remarked, “Our alliance with TechEagle represents a significant step forward in our commitment to UAV technology. TechEagle’s drones surpass global benchmarks, and this collaboration will deepen our UAV innovation efforts. By leveraging each other’s strengths, we strive to secure a leading position on the global stage.” TechEagle has already delivered hundreds of SKUs, including parcels, groceries, medicines, and diagnostic samples, across 30+ cities, covering over 500,000 aerial kilometers and saving more than 2,500 metric tonnes in carbon emissions. Meanwhile, ideaForge ranks fifth globally in dual-use drone manufacturing, with over 500,000 completed flights using their UAVs.

Admin July 31, 2024 0

Skye Air secures $4 million in funding to expand drone logistics

BCI launches advanced RFID reader 'Dristi' to enhance supply chain efficiency

TechEagle partners with ideaForge to revolutionise drone logistics

Skye Air secures $4 million in funding to expand drone logistics

Skye Air, a leading drone logistics solution provider, has raised $4 million (approximately Rs 34 crore) in Series A funding. This round was backed by Mount Judi Ventures, Chiratae Ventures, Venture Catalyst, Windrose Capital, and Tremis Capital, alongside Faad Capital, Misfits Capital, Hyderabad Angels, Soonicorn Ventures, and other investors. The funds will be used to expand Skye Air's operations across Gurugram and other cities, focusing on healthcare and quick-commerce deliveries. "The fresh capital will help the company expand its last-mile network across Gurugram and other cities for healthcare, e-commerce, and quick-commerce deliveries," said Ankit Kumar, Founder and CEO of Skye Air. He highlighted the potential growth of the Indian drone sector under the Modi 3.0 government, envisioning India as a global drone hub by 2030. Maple Capital Advisors acted as exclusive financial advisors, while LexStart Partners provided legal counsel for the transaction. Skye Air, headquartered in Delhi-NCR, offers SaaS-based autonomous logistics solutions, integrating drone deliveries into mainstream logistics for healthcare, e-commerce, quick-commerce, and agri-commodities. The company also developed Skye UTM, an advanced Unmanned Traffic Management system ensuring safe and efficient drone operations. With this new funding, Skye Air aims to revolutionise logistics in India and set a global benchmark for drone delivery solutions.

Admin June 19, 2024 0

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In a major step toward improving India’s medical device supply chain, Celcius Logistics has partnered with Ottobock India to launch a dedicated prosthetics and assistive-device warehouse facility in Thane, Maharashtra. The newly launched facility, located at Wagle Estate, spans approximately 3,000 sq ft and has been developed to support the storage and nationwide distribution of advanced prosthetic limbs, orthotic devices and other specialized healthcare products. The warehouse features 110 slotted racks, more than 700 bin locations, and a temperature- controlled section for storing sensitive medical materials. Under a five- year agreement, Celcius Logistics, an Indian healthcare and cold-chain logistics company will manage the end-to-end warehouse operations and transportation for Ottobock India, the Indian arm of Germany-based prosthetics manufacturer Ottobock. Both firms have already indicated plans to expand the facility’s operational capacity by nearly 25 percent within the next year as demand increases. Commenting on the partnership, Swarup Bose, Founder and CEO, Celcius Logistics, said, “This partnership reflects how healthcare supply chains in India are evolving towards greater precision, reliability, and accountability. At Celcius, we are focused on building infrastructure that can consistently support the movement of high-value, sensitive medical products at scale. By combining our technology-led logistics capabilities with Ottobock’s global expertise, we are enabling a more robust and responsive distribution ecosystem.” The launch of the Thane facility is therefore being seen by industry experts not only as a warehousing expansion, but also as a broader move toward building a specialized healthcare logistics in India. Follow CARGOCONNECT for more such updates.

Changi Airport to prioritise pharmaceuticals and e-commerce amid cargo constraints

Singapore’s Changi Airport is sharpening its focus on pharmaceuticals and e-commerce shipments to navigate constrained cargo capacity until planned expansion in the 2030s. According to Lim Ching Kiat, Executive Vice President of Air Hub and Cargo Development at Changi Airport Group, current facilities face mounting pressure due to growing regional demand, necessitating strategic tenant and cargo type management. E-commerce continues to be a key growth driver for air cargo globally, fueled by major players like Shein, Temu, and TikTok Shop. At the same time, Singapore is solidifying its position as Southeast Asia’s preferred pharmaceutical hub, attracting investments from global biopharma giants such as Thermo Fisher, Sanofi, BioNTech, and MSD. Looking ahead, Changi Airport plans to launch a second logistics park by the 2030s, aiming to increase its annual cargo capacity from 3 million tons to 5.4 million tons. The new free trade zone will further expedite cargo handling and redistribution. In 2024, Changi Airport reported handling 1.99 million tons of airfreight, a 14.6% rise from 2023, driven by robust cross-border e-commerce demand, improved trade routes with China and the U.S., and recovering electronics exports. Top air cargo markets included China, Australia, the U.S., Hong Kong, and India.

A multifaceted approach focussed on continuous improvement and innovation

As we all know, supply chain management encompasses a multifaceted approach to streamline operations, optimise resources, and meet customer demands efficiently. Integrating the entire supply chain involves aligning and synchronising all components, processes, and stakeholders involved—from suppliers to end consumers. Most importantly, an integrated supply chain leverages technology and standardised processes to achieve seamless coordination, visibility, and data sharing across the entire value chain. As businesses navigate the complexities of today’s global marketplace, harnessing the power of an innovative supply chain through enabling technological advancements and process improvements is crucial for establishing resilient, responsive, and future-ready supply chain ecosystems. These aspects are brought together by three crucial elements: technology as the backbone of innovative supply chains, continuous improvement throughout the entire supply chain, and network structures driven by transparent communication and end-to-end visibility. Harish Singh, Head – Supply Chain, Burgerama talks about the amalgamation of these key elements that enable organisations like Burgerama to stay ahead in a rapidly evolving business landscape, fostering innovation and sustainable growth in the realm of supply chain management features. Excerpts by UPAMANYU BORAH from a recent interaction. Genesis and Operations Founded in 2018 by Kabir, Viraaj, and Vivek, Burgerama is a flavour-packed tale of the juiciest cheeseburgers in India. Starting strong in Sushant Lok in October 2018, not even a global pandemic could halt this culinary sensation. What sets Burgerama apart? It's the explosion of taste in every bite, achieved through meticulous ingredient selection and an unwavering commitment to authenticity. Beyond just a food joint, Burgerama is a narrative of enduring friendship and an unyielding quest to craft the perfect burger experience. Now operating 14 delivery outlets across Delhi NCR, Chandigarh, and Bangalore, Burgerama has come to be known for its passionate team, true-to-form flavours and genuinely delicious products, creating a truly unique burger experience for all. Adapting to Macro Challenges In recent times, our burger brand has experienced both positive and negative impacts from the macro environment. A shift towards healthier eating habits has inspired us to innovate our menu, offering diverse options with high-quality, nutritious ingredients, expanding our appeal. Embracing sustainability, we've adopted eco-friendly packaging and responsible sourcing, aligning with evolving consumer values. However, challenges persist. Fluctuating commodity prices and supply chain disruptions occasionally affect our quality and pricing consistency. To address this, we've prioritised supply chain flexibility. Technological investments and strategic partnerships enable swift responses to unforeseen circumstances. Building relationships with multiple suppliers and agile inventory management mitigate localised disruptions. Our logistics infrastructure, designed for agility, includes contingency plans and alternative routes, ensuring seamless operations. Despite macro challenges, our commitment to a flexible supply chain empowers us to navigate obstacles effectively, ensuring consistent delivery of quality burgers to our customers under any circumstances. Global Benchmarks, Local Adaptations Our burger brand prioritises a consistent supply through tech-driven forecasting, strategic partnerships, and global benchmarking. Leveraging predictive analytics, we adjust production to minimise shortages or overstocking. Long-term relationships with suppliers ensure transparent operations, from sourcing to delivery. We adapt successful global practices through benchmarking and continually improve through audits, adopting new technologies or optimising routes. Our commitment to agility and learning from global benchmarks ensures a reliable supply chain, meeting dynamic customer demands. Cost Management Methods In the face of escalating input costs, especially in a landscape where our primary business operates through Zomato and Swiggy, our commitment remains to shield end consumers from additional financial burdens. Our strategy is multi-faceted, emphasising cost management without compromising quality or transferring extra expenses to the customer. Internally, we relentlessly optimise operations, streamlining processes from sourcing to distribution to enhance efficiency and minimise wastage throughout the supply chain. Furthermore, we are resolute in absorbing a certain degree of these cost increases within our operations, ensuring that the quality, value, and experience associated with our brand remain uncompromised. Collaborating closely with our suppliers and distributors, we navigate peak input costs by absorbing some of the financial pressures internally, ultimately ensuring that the end consumer is spared from additional financial strains. Automation advancements in Operations Harnessing advanced information technology has been transformative for our supply chain. Integration of cutting-edge solutions has significantly boosted efficiency, agility, and responsiveness. A key initiative involves implementing robust inventory management systems driven by machine learning algorithms. These systems enhance demand forecasting, optimise inventory levels, and predict supply chain disruptions. This proactive approach ensures balanced stock levels at both outlet and warehouse, preventing excesses or shortages. Automation further streamlines operations, with an indent planning tool seamlessly integrated into our inventory management for more precise order fulfillment planning. Strong Partnerships: Key to minimising disruptions In India's supply chain landscape, seamless coordination among suppliers, distributors, and logistics partners is crucial. Our approach emphasises robust communication channels, fostering transparency, strategy alignment, and quick problem-solving. During crises, like recent disruptions, our coordination becomes even more vital. Swift adaptations, such as diversifying supply channels and optimising stock, help us navigate challenges. Strong partner relationships minimise disruptions. Despite widespread implications, our focus stays on fostering collaborations and open communication to navigate challenges effectively and deliver quality service in alignment with the dynamic Indian market. Logistics: Enabling Our Burger Success In our burger brand's success story in India, logistics plays a vital role, serving as the backbone of our operations. Entrusting specific functions to external partners, such as transportation and warehousing, ensures efficient delivery routes and streamlined distribution. While external partners handle certain tasks, the majority of logistics operations, including inventory management and strategic planning, are internally controlled. This internal control is crucial for optimising inventory, anticipating market demands, and maintaining a smooth product flow. With approximately 90 per cent of logistics operations managed internally, we strike a balance, leveraging external expertise while retaining control over core functions. This collaborative strategy ensures the benefits of specialised skills from partners, coupled with the agility needed to adapt to India's unique market demands. Win-Win Partnerships In selecting logistics partners for our Indian operations, we prioritise reliability, scalability, and technological proficiency. Timely and consistent deliveries are crucial, requiring partners adaptable to India's dynamic landscape. We emphasise technology-driven solutions, favoring partners with advanced tracking systems and route optimisation. Cost-effectiveness is key, seeking competitive pricing without compromising service quality. Transparency, compliance with regulations, and a customer-centric approach are foundational criteria. Thorough evaluations and trial periods ensure compatibility and strong partnerships, ensuring a smooth and efficient logistics operation for our burger brand in India. Efficient Transportation Strategies In response to the evolving logistics landscape in India, our policies and strategies pivot towards embracing alternative transport modes and optimising routes for efficient outsourcing of logistics services. We advocate for multimodal transport, acknowledging the strengths of various modes like road and rail to optimise cost, time, and environmental impact. Prioritising route optimisation through advanced technologies enables us to minimise transit times and costs, leveraging data-driven analytics to assess traffic patterns and road conditions. Collaboration with specialised 3PL service providers in alternative transport modes enhances our network efficiency. Recognising the last-mile delivery challenge in India, our policies explore innovative solutions, including partnerships with local services and micro-warehousing strategies. The emphasis on adaptability and agility allows us to respond dynamically to market dynamics, embracing new transport modes for enhanced efficiency or reduced environmental impact. Continuous evaluation and improvement are ingrained in our policies, fostering a diversified and adaptable logistics framework that ensures efficient supply chain operations for our business. Warehousing strategies that alleviates the bottom-line To optimise our operations, we strategically position warehouses for proximity to major consumption centers, minimising transportation costs and reducing delivery times across India. Leveraging technology, we implement warehouse management systems and plan to introduce barcode systems for enhanced accuracy. Embracing lean principles, we focus on continuous improvement, eliminating non-value-added activities, and maintaining efficient layouts. Anticipating seasonal or peak demand, we implement inventory strategies for optimal preparation without excess costs during quieter periods. Collaboration with 3PLs allows scalability and access to specialised facilities. Utilising data analytics, we continuously analyse warehouse efficiency, facilitating data-driven decisions for ongoing process improvements. Through these strategies, we aim for efficient, agile, and customer-centric operations, ensuring timely product delivery across India while optimising costs and resources. Distinct capabilities with a strategic Innovation Approach Maximising the efficiency of our logistics and backend operations involves a multifaceted approach focussed on continuous improvement and innovation. Leveraging advanced analytics, we prioritise accurate demand forecasting for optimised inventory levels, balancing meeting customer demands with minimising excess stock. Building strong relationships with suppliers and implementing lean supply chain principles help in reducing lead times, cutting costs, and maintaining a responsive supply chain. Constantly exploring and integrating emerging technologies such as AI and Bar Coding enhances visibility and transparency across the supply chain. Sustainability initiatives, including eco-friendly packaging and optimised delivery routes, align with our commitment to environmental responsibility. Regular assessments and adaptation to market changes, whether regulatory shifts or consumer preferences, ensure operational agility. Our ultimate goal is to create a responsive, cost-effective, and sustainable supply chain that meets customer demands across diverse cities. Megatrends changing the face of Supply Chain Executives In the dynamic landscape of India's supply chain and logistics, several pivotal megatrends are set to reshape the roles of managers in these domains. Technology integration, including AI and machine learning, will revolutionise operations, requiring managers to harness these tools for enhanced visibility and data-driven decision-making. Building resilience against disruptions and diversifying sourcing channels will be imperative. Leveraging data analytics for predictive insights will be essential for optimising inventory and enhancing overall efficiency. Collaborative partnerships across the supply chain ecosystem will strengthen, necessitating closer ties with suppliers, distributors, and technology providers. Adapting to evolving regulations, upskilling the workforce for increased automation, and prioritising customer-centric logistics experiences are paramount. Striking the right balance between globalisation benefits and localised strategies will be a key challenge. Managers who adeptly navigate and capitalise on these megatrends will build agile, sustainable, and technologically advanced operations, meeting the evolving demands of the market. Advice for budding professionals To young supply chain professionals entering the industry in India, here's some invaluable advices for navigating the evolving landscape. Embrace continuous learning by staying updated on technological advancements and industry trends, and seek certifications and mentorship. Develop a holistic understanding of the supply chain spectrum, acknowledging the interconnections between procurement, logistics, operations, and customer relations. Cultivate adaptability and flexibility to navigate the fast-paced and disruptive nature of the industry. Focus on data literacy, particularly proficiency in analytics tools like Excel, for making informed decisions. Hone communication and collaboration skills to effectively coordinate with diverse teams and stakeholders. Embrace ethical and sustainable practices, recognising their growing importance in supply chains. Lastly, foster a problem-solving mindset, as the ability to address challenges efficiently is highly valued in the dynamic field of supply chain management.

Challenge Group strengthens fleet with new Boeing 747-400F to meet growing global demand

Challenge Group unveiled its newest Boeing 747-400 production freighter registered under its Belgian AOC. With this acquisition, Challenge Group’s fleet now consists of 10 state-of-the-art aircraft, including six Boeing 747-400F and four Boeing 767-300F freighters, trebling its fleet in less than three years. This expansion positions the company to meet increasing customer demand with greater efficiency and flexibility. The new aircraft will significantly enhance Challenge Group’s capacity and frequency, addressing rising demand for perishable transportation out of Africa, e-commerce shipments from China, and transatlantic trade. Predominantly serving the e-commerce sector from China, the Boeing 747-400F will also support diverse industries and verticals with its versatile cargo capabilities. “The addition of the Boeing 747-400F is a pivotal step in Challenge Group’s fleet strategy,” said Or Zak, Chief Commercial Officer at Challenge Group. “It reinforces our ability to respond to the evolving demands of the air freight capacity while expanding our capability to serve new markets. This aircraft exemplifies our commitment to operational flexibility and providing additional solutions for our customers.” This expansion aligns with Challenge Group’s long-term strategy to grow its fleet and increase its market reach. By incorporating advanced freighters like the Boeing 747-400 production freighter, the company is well-positioned to deploy additional capacity as needed and strengthen its global network.

Delmos Aviation transports second lot of oxygen concentrators from Russia for Rajasthan government

Delmos Aviation has transported the second lot of 300 units of oxygen concentrators from Russia to New Delhi for the Rajasthan state government. The consignment was airborne on an Aeroflot A333 aircraft (SU 232) and reached at 10:10 AM in New Delhi. The shipments were shipped by road and sent back to Swasthya Bhawan, Jaipur, Rajasthan Medical Services Corporation (RMSCL). RMSCL obtained oxygen concentrators from Russian companies together with Delmos Aviation. Delmos Aviation is procuring, transporting and supplying COVID-relied materials to the Rajasthan Medical Services Corporation with the mandate signed with the Rajasthan Government. There will shortly be two consignments with the remaining 800 oxygen concentrators. "We are ready to assist governments in the provision and delivery of any type of essential medical supplies, oxygen concentration and equipment as quickly as possible," said Dr Naveen Rao, Director, Delmos Aviation. "At this juncture, time-based deliveries are paramount. We can handle the airlift and deliver the shipment to the last point." In four lots, 100, 300, 450 and 400 units, a total of 1250 oxygen concentrations are ordered and continue to reach New Delhi in batches of shipments. On 14 and 16 May 2021, the remaining lots will arrive. Oxygen concentrators of Single flowmeter (0.5-10LPM Adjustable) and double flowmeter (0-5LPM Adjustable) are included in the delivery. The models are JAY-10A & LFY-I-5A. "The government of Rajasthan is working hard in this raging second wave of the pandemic to provide basic medical equipment to head Minister Ashok Gehlot and Minister of Health, Raghu Sharma. The government plans to import 1250 oxygen concentrators from Moscow, Russia, in partnership with Delmos Aviation, as part of its efforts to enhance medical oxygen in the state," said a spokesperson.