Prime Minister Narendra Modi is scheduled to dedicate Mangalore Refinery and Petrochemicals Limited’s (MRPL) Devangonthi Marketing Terminal in Bengaluru to the nation today. Developed at an investment of ₹330 crore, the facility is expected to strengthen Karnataka’s petroleum storage and distribution infrastructure while improving fuel supply reliability across Bengaluru and neighbouring markets. Spread across 20 acres, the terminal has a storage capacity of 77,000 kilolitres and is connected to MRPL’s Mangaluru refinery through the 363-km Petronet Mangalore-Hassan-Bangalore Pipeline. The pipeline-based arrangement enables the movement of finished petroleum products from the coastal refinery to the Bengaluru terminal, reducing dependence on long-distance road transportation for bulk fuel movement. The Devangonthi facility is designed to handle multiple petroleum products, including petrol, diesel and Aviation Turbine Fuel (ATF). Its customer base includes Bengaluru airport, MRPL’s HiQ retail outlets, other oil marketing companies (OMCs) and industrial consumers. The infrastructure is expected to support the growing fuel requirements of the aviation, retail and industrial sectors in Karnataka. Strengthening Fuel Distribution Infrastructure To streamline terminal operations and improve distribution efficiency, the facility is equipped with 10 automated truck-loading bays and digital control systems. These systems are intended to facilitate efficient loading operations while maintaining operational safety and reliability. The terminal also incorporates dedicated storage and blending infrastructure for ethanol and biodiesel, enabling the blending of biofuels with conventional petrol and diesel. A significant aspect of the project is its potential environmental benefit. By shifting long-distance transportation of petroleum products from road to pipeline, particularly along the ecologically sensitive Western Ghats route, MRPL estimates that the facility could help avoid approximately 40,000 tonnes of carbon dioxide emissions annually. Reduced dependence on fuel tanker movements over long distances is also expected to contribute to improved road safety and lower transportation-related environmental impacts. Beyond its operational advantages, the project is expected to generate more than 280 direct and indirect employment opportunities. It is also expected to facilitate the expansion of MRPL’s fuel distribution network and support industrial and commercial activities across Karnataka and neighbouring markets. Boost to Karnataka’s Energy Infrastructure The dedication of the Devangonthi Marketing Terminal is part of a broader infrastructure development programme being undertaken in Karnataka. During his visit, the Prime Minister is scheduled to dedicate and inaugurate several development projects in Bengaluru, collectively valued at over ₹15,600 crore, covering sectors such as urban mobility, power transmission, renewable energy, petroleum infrastructure, waste management and railways. Among the other petroleum infrastructure projects on the programme is the dedication of an underground LPG storage cavern in Mangaluru, developed at an investment of over ₹850 crore. With a storage capacity of 80,000 metric tonnes, the facility is expected to strengthen the country's LPG storage capabilities. With its pipeline connectivity, substantial storage capacity and automated distribution infrastructure, MRPL’s Devangonthi terminal represents an important addition to Karnataka’s energy logistics network. The project is expected to improve the efficiency of petroleum product movement, strengthen regional fuel availability and support the state's expanding economic and industrial requirements. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

The Directorate General of Maritime Administration (DGMA) has directed all major ports, minor ports and State Maritime Boards across India to submit consolidated information on abandoned, detained, arrested, disabled and other non-operational vessels within 15 days of the issuance of its latest circular. The move aims to strengthen maritime safety, improve monitoring of vessels posing operational risks and maintain a comprehensive record of ships that could threaten port infrastructure, navigation and the marine environment. Issued on 9 November 2026, the notice calls for port authorities to identify vessels within their respective jurisdictions and areas of control, including port limits, berths, anchorages and port approaches. The reporting exercise covers abandoned or suspected abandoned vessels, ships detained by Port State Control or other statutory authorities, and vessels arrested or restrained under court orders or legal proceedings. The directive also extends to vessels that are immobilised, disabled, laid-up, stranded, grounded, drifting, unmanned or otherwise unable to operate safely. Additionally, ports must report any other vessels whose condition, location or circumstances could pose risks to people, maritime security, port operations, infrastructure or the environment. Comprehensive Vessel-Wise Reporting Under the circular, port authorities are required to submit vessel-wise information in the prescribed Annexure-I format. The details must include vessel particulars, identification numbers, type, flag, present location, operational status and the reason and duration of the vessel's non-operational condition. Authorities must also furnish information about the shipowner, operator, manager and agent, along with relevant contact details. Particular attention has been given to seafarer welfare, with ports required to report the number of people on board, their broad particulars and any concerns relating to wages, provisions, medical assistance or repatriation. The reporting format further requires details of the vessel's operational condition, defects, cargo and bunker fuel levels, wherever relevant. Any potential impact on navigation, port infrastructure, ongoing operations, maritime security or pollution must also be highlighted. Ports are expected to document the action already taken, agencies informed, the vessel's current status and any assistance or coordination required from DGMA or other competent authorities. Importantly, the reporting requirement applies irrespective of whether crew members or other personnel remain onboard or whether the vessel has been formally declared abandoned. Information that is unavailable can be marked as 'Not Known'. Immediate Reporting of Fresh Cases Beyond the initial submission, DGMA has established an ongoing reporting mechanism. Any fresh case involving vessels that fall under the specified categories, particularly those presenting an immediate or potential threat to life, port safety, navigation or the marine environment, must be reported to the regulator immediately. Port authorities must also promptly communicate material developments in existing cases and provide periodic updates until the matter is resolved or the vessel no longer falls within the circular's scope. Even ports with no such vessels or cases within their jurisdiction are required to submit a NIL report. The circular clarifies that the information-sharing exercise does not override existing court orders or directions issued by competent statutory authorities. Through this initiative, DGMA seeks to establish a more coordinated monitoring framework for vessels of safety concern in Indian waters, supporting seafarer welfare, uninterrupted port operations and environmentally responsible maritime activities. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐭𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

Emirates SkyCargo has announced the launch of a new weekly freighter service between Milan Malpensa Airport (MXP) and John F. Kennedy International Airport (JFK), New York, effective 5 December 2026. The new route is aimed at addressing growing demand for air cargo capacity between Northern Italy and the United States while providing businesses with improved access to international markets. Operated by the airline's Boeing 777-F freighter aircraft, the service will offer approximately 100 tonnes of cargo capacity per flight. It will primarily support exports from Italy's Lombardy region, including pharmaceuticals, vaccines, clinical trial medicines, luxury goods, fashion products, industrial equipment, automotive components, fresh produce and speciality food products. The development comes amid strong growth in Emirates SkyCargo's export volumes from Milan, which increased by 13% in FY2025-26 compared with the previous financial year. The airline currently provides more than 500 tonnes of weekly export capacity from Milan to global destinations, including over 100 tonnes of weekly bellyhold capacity on passenger flights to New York. Commenting on the expansion, Badr Abbas, Divisional Senior Vice President, Emirates SkyCargo, said the additional freighter capacity would provide exporters with greater access, flexibility and reliability in serving the US market. He also highlighted the growing export demand from the Greater New York region and the importance of strengthening international cargo connections through Dubai. Strengthening Two-Way Trade Connectivity Beyond supporting Italian exports, the new service will improve cargo connectivity for businesses in the Greater New York region and the Northeastern United States. Emirates SkyCargo reported a 23% increase in export volumes from New York's JFK and Newark Liberty International Airport (EWR) between FY2024-25 and FY2025-26. Key commodities moving out of the US include pharmaceuticals and healthcare products, perishables, e-commerce shipments, machinery and industrial components. Through its Dubai hub, the airline will offer onward connections to markets across the Middle East, Asia and Oceania, creating additional opportunities for international freight movement. The new route also complements Emirates SkyCargo's existing operations in Italy. The carrier operates a weekly freighter service between Milan and Dubai World Central (DWC), alongside passenger bellyhold capacity and road feeder services. Across its four Italian gateways – Bologna, Milan, Rome and Venice – the airline provides more than 1,000 tonnes of weekly export cargo capacity. Expanding Global Freighter Network The Milan–New York launch forms part of Emirates SkyCargo's broader network expansion strategy in North America. The carrier introduced freighter services to Los Angeles and Dallas while increasing frequencies to Miami in 2026. Fleet expansion has further supported this growth. Emirates SkyCargo took delivery of eight freighter aircraft, comprising seven new-production Boeing 777-F freighters and one Boeing 777-300ER converted freighter. Consequently, its dedicated freighter network expanded from more than 40 destinations in March 2026 to over 60 destinations by July 2026. With the additional Milan–New York connection, the carrier aims to strengthen its transatlantic cargo operations, improve access to international markets and support the evolving logistics requirements of global businesses. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

Newcastle Airport has strengthened its air cargo infrastructure with the opening of a new government-approved Border Control Post (BCP), enhancing its ability to handle regulated imports and expand its role as an international trade gateway in North East England. Worldwide Flight Services (WFS), a global air cargo logistics and ground handling provider, has opened the facility at its operational hub within the airport’s freight village. The new Border Control Post will enable regulated goods, including flowers, plants and plant products, fruits and vegetables, to undergo mandatory inspections and clearance directly at the airport. The facility is expected to improve the movement of time-sensitive and perishable consignments by allowing goods to be cleared closer to their final destinations. This will help importers and businesses reduce transit times, minimise logistics costs and improve supply chain efficiency. It also broadens the range of products that can enter the UK directly through Newcastle Airport, offering businesses across the region an additional route for international imports. The development forms part of Newcastle Airport’s wider strategy to strengthen its cargo handling capabilities. The airport currently handles more than 5,000 tonnes of freight annually and continues to invest in infrastructure and operational capacity to support growing demand. Earlier in 2026, Samson Aviation, the airport’s executive jet centre and handling partner, expanded its equipment fleet with the addition of a main deck loader and supporting ground service equipment. The investment has enhanced the airport’s ability to accommodate a wider range of narrowbody and widebody passenger, charter and cargo aircraft, while supporting specialised and oversized shipments, including heavy machinery and luxury vehicles. With 24-hour operations, on-site refuelling facilities, professional cargo handling services and direct access to the region’s strategic road network, Newcastle Airport is strengthening its proposition for cargo operators and freight forwarders. Commenting on the development, Leon McQuaid, Director of Aviation Development at Newcastle Airport, said: "The new Border Control Post marks another important milestone in the growth of Newcastle Airport's cargo services, strengthening our position as a gateway for international trade." He added that the investment by WFS would help businesses move goods more efficiently, provide faster market access and support economic growth across North East England and beyond. The latest development reinforces Newcastle Airport’s ambition to expand its cargo operations and attract further aviation and logistics businesses, positioning it as an increasingly important gateway for regional and international trade. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

Air France-KLM Martinair Cargo (AFKLMP Cargo) is witnessing strong growth in its air freight business as global supply chain disruptions and rising demand for artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure shipments encourage shippers to move time-sensitive cargo from sea to air. The trend has strengthened the group's cargo performance in the third quarter of 2026, with demand continuing to outpace available capacity. The cargo division reported a 25.2% year-on-year increase in third-quarter revenue to €677 million, while cargo traffic revenue climbed 24.9% to €566 million. Total cargo volumes increased 5% to 236,000 tonnes, while traffic, measured in revenue tonne-kilometres (RTK), grew 8%. Capacity expanded by a comparatively modest 2.3%, taking the cargo load factor up 2.4 percentage points to 46%. The airline attributed the improved performance to disruptions along key maritime trade routes, particularly around the Suez Canal and Strait of Hormuz, which prompted shippers to shift urgent and high-value consignments to air freight. Additionally, growing demand from AI-related supply chains, including infrastructure and technology shipments, has tightened global air cargo capacity. These developments have enabled the group to secure additional volumes and full-freighter charter opportunities, supporting yields across its network. Alongside the demand-led growth, KLM is restructuring its cargo handling operations at Amsterdam Schiphol Airport. The airline plans to consolidate freight carried on both passenger aircraft and freighters within its own warehouse. The move is aimed at simplifying processes, increasing automation and improving workforce productivity, allowing higher cargo volumes to be managed without additional recruitment. The consolidation will also prepare KLM Cargo for a new cargo terminal planned for completion in 2035, while strengthening Schiphol's potential to attract transfer cargo. KLM intends to expand support services for customers as part of the operational changes. The developments underline how changing global trade patterns, technology-driven demand and operational automation are reshaping the air cargo sector. For AFKLMP Cargo, the ability to respond to shifting freight flows while improving handling efficiency will remain central to sustaining growth. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

American Airlines Cargo has extended its longstanding partnership with Worldwide Flight Services (WFS), a SATS company, through a new five-year cargo handling agreement covering eight European countries. The agreement reinforces a relationship spanning more than four decades and aims to strengthen the airline's cargo operations across key European markets while supporting its extensive transatlantic network. Under the renewed agreement, WFS will continue providing cargo handling services at major American Airlines Cargo stations in Denmark, France, Germany, Ireland, Italy, the Netherlands, Spain and the United Kingdom. The partnership will facilitate the movement of shipments between Europe, the United States and other destinations across American Airlines' global network, ensuring continued connectivity for freight forwarders and cargo customers. The agreement covers a comprehensive range of services, including general cargo and mail handling, security screening, customs support and documentation. WFS will also continue managing specialised shipments requiring dedicated handling capabilities, including pharmaceuticals, live animals, dangerous goods and e-commerce consignments. Commenting on the extended partnership, Greg Schwendinger, President at American Airlines Cargo, said, “Our longstanding partnership with WFS has played an important role in supporting our operations across Europe. Together, we’re continuing to provide the reliable service and global connectivity our customers expect from American Airlines Cargo.” A key component of the renewed arrangement is the continuation of WFS' European road feeder services network. The network provides additional connectivity between major cargo gateways and regional destinations, offering customers greater flexibility in moving freight across the continent. By combining airport cargo handling with road transportation capabilities, the arrangement will help support integrated cargo movements across European markets. Dan Parker, SVP Commercial EMEA at WFS, highlighted the strength of the relationship, stating, “Our relationship with American Airlines Cargo spans more than 40 years and continues to grow in strength. This long-term renewal reflects the trust we have built together and the strength of WFS’ European network in supporting American Airlines Cargo’s operations.” He added, “By combining our network and cargo handling expertise with American’s global connectivity, we can continue delivering reliable service for customers across Europe and beyond. We are proud to continue this longstanding partnership.” The renewed agreement also reflects the wider international scope of the two companies' collaboration. Beyond Europe, WFS continues to support American Airlines Cargo at several key international cargo gateways in North America and Asia, extending the partnership's operational reach across multiple regions. The five-year extension underscores the importance of dependable ground handling infrastructure, specialised cargo expertise and integrated surface transportation in supporting international air freight operations. With growing requirements for temperature-sensitive pharmaceuticals, e-commerce shipments and other specialised commodities, the continued collaboration is expected to provide greater operational continuity and connectivity for customers across American Airlines Cargo's European network. The agreement further strengthens WFS' position as a key cargo handling partner for international airlines, while enabling American Airlines Cargo to maintain reliable services across its major European gateways and global freight network. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!  

Jeena & Company has appointed Priyank Jain as its new Chief Financial Officer (CFO), strengthening its financial leadership as the 125-year-old logistics and supply chain solutions provider prepares for its next phase of growth. The appointment is aimed at driving financial transformation, improving operational efficiency and strengthening the company's financial systems. Based at the company's corporate office in Mumbai, Jain will report directly to Chief Executive Officer Prediman K. Koul and lead the Finance & Accounts function, with the entire finance team reporting to him. A Chartered Accountant with over 15 years of experience in corporate finance, accounting and strategic leadership, Jain brings extensive expertise in financial management, business planning and process optimisation. He began his career at SBS Group as a Manager, where he handled internal audits, account finalisation and mergers and acquisitions, while contributing to the company's geographical expansion. Subsequently, during his tenure at BDP International, he established an annual business planning and budgeting process and introduced a stronger Management Information System (MIS) framework to improve the monitoring of operational and financial performance. Before joining Jeena & Company, Jain served as Deputy General Manager at Mahindra Logistics Ltd. He led system and process improvements that delivered annual cost savings, helped develop an integrated finance system and spearheaded a revenue assurance initiative to improve revenue estimation through better data extraction and validation. At Jeena, his initial focus has been on streamlining financial processes, strengthening accountability and fostering operational excellence to support informed decision-making across the organisation. Jain holds a Bachelor of Commerce degree from Mumbai University, is a Chartered Accountant from ICAI Mumbai and holds a Diploma in International Financial Reporting Standards (IFRS) from the UK. He has also completed a finance leadership programme at the Indian Institute of Management Ahmedabad. Commenting on his appointment, Priyank Jain said, “I am excited and look forward to my journey at Jeena and I am deeply grateful to our Partners and the CEO for showing their trust upon me. Jeena’s 125-year journey will help me witness both the sides of the coin- the old legacy and the digital transformation it is going through.” He further added, “My focus will be on building financial systems and processes that are strong enough to support the company’s next phase of growth, while staying true to the discipline and reliability that have defined Jeena for over a century. I look forward to working closely with the leadership team and the finance function to help drive that forward,” Commenting on the appointment, CEO Prediman K. Koul said, “Priyank brings a strong mix of financial discipline and hands-on operational experience in logistics, which fits well with where we are headed as a business. As we scale toward our next phase of growth, his ability to build robust systems and drive financial rigour will be a real asset to the team.” The leadership appointment underscores Jeena & Company's focus on strengthening financial capabilities and building a robust operational foundation for sustainable business growth. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

NITI Aayog and Germany’s international cooperation agency, Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit (GIZ) GmbH, have signed an implementation agreement to accelerate the decarbonisation of India's road freight sector, with a focus on promoting electric medium- and heavy-duty trucks. The agreement was signed on November 3, 2026, under the second phase of the Nationally Determined Contribution–Transport Initiative for Asia (NDC-TIA II). The regional initiative is supported by the German Government's International Climate Initiative (IKI) and aims to support participating countries in reducing transport-related emissions and advancing their climate commitments. The collaboration comes at a time when India is seeking to transition towards a more sustainable, energy-efficient and low-carbon transportation ecosystem. Road freight remains critical to the country's supply chain and logistics operations, making the adoption of cleaner commercial vehicles an important part of its broader decarbonisation strategy. However, the electrification of medium- and heavy-duty freight vehicles remains at an early stage. Limited charging infrastructure, high upfront vehicle costs, access to financing and the need for supportive regulations continue to present challenges to wider adoption. The NITI Aayog–GIZ partnership will focus on addressing these structural barriers by supporting the development of adequate charging infrastructure, exploring innovative financing mechanisms and strengthening the regulatory framework required to facilitate electric truck deployment. The initiative brings together several knowledge and implementation partners, including World Resources Institute (WRI) India, the International Council on Clean Transportation (ICCT) India and Agora Energiewende. Their participation is expected to support policy development, technical expertise and coordinated efforts towards cleaner freight transportation. The regional programme also covers China and Vietnam, encouraging collaboration on transport decarbonisation across Asia. For India's logistics industry, the partnership could help create a more conducive environment for fleet electrification, particularly across high-volume freight corridors connecting manufacturing centres, ports and distribution hubs. Improved charging access and financing options will be essential to building confidence among fleet operators and logistics service providers. The agreement marks another step in India's efforts to advance green freight mobility, strengthen energy efficiency and meet its Nationally Determined Contribution (NDC) targets. By addressing infrastructure, financing and policy challenges together, the collaboration aims to support the gradual transition towards a commercially viable and lower-emission road freight ecosystem. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

Indian Railways has registered its highest-ever freight loading for October, transporting 145.07 million tonnes (MT) of goods in October 2026, marking an 8.32% year-on-year increase over the 133.93 MT recorded in October 2025. The record performance reflects rising freight demand across key sectors, including agriculture, power, steel, cement and manufacturing, strengthening the rail network's role in India's logistics and supply chain ecosystem. According to the Ministry of Railways, the network handled an additional 11.14 MT of freight during the month compared with the corresponding period last year. The growth was supported by higher transportation volumes across several major commodity categories, with food grains and domestic coal emerging as the strongest contributors. Food grain loading registered the highest growth among the reported commodities, increasing 26.3% year-on-year. Domestic coal transportation rose 16%, while the balance other goods category recorded an 11% increase. Clinker loading, an important input for cement manufacturing, grew 10.4%, reflecting sustained movement of construction-related materials. Other commodity segments also reported positive growth. Domestic container traffic increased 6.3%, while iron ore loading rose 5%. Mineral oil and finished steel registered comparatively moderate growth of 1.9% and 0.5%, respectively. The increase in container volumes also indicates continued demand for rail-based freight movement for domestic cargo transportation. A significant component of October's freight performance was the increased movement of domestic coal to power plants. To meet higher requirements from power houses, Indian Railways supplied an average of 469.8 coal rakes per day during October 2026, compared with 393.2 rakes per day in October 2025. This represents a growth of 19.5%, translating into approximately 77 additional coal rakes daily. The increase highlights the importance of rail transportation in maintaining fuel supply chains and supporting uninterrupted power generation. Efficient coal movement remains a critical operational priority, particularly amid rising energy requirements from industrial and economic activities. The strong October performance has further strengthened Indian Railways' cumulative freight loading during the ongoing financial year. Between April and October 2026, the national transporter handled 978.78 MT of freight, compared with 935.10 MT during the corresponding seven-month period of the previous financial year, registering growth of 4.67%. The network's expanding freight volumes underline the importance of capacity augmentation, improved terminal infrastructure and operational efficiency in supporting India's growing cargo requirements. Dedicated Freight Corridors (DFCs), improved freight handling facilities and stronger connectivity between industrial centres, ports and consumption markets remain important components of the country's rail logistics development. Therefore, the latest figures highlight the growing contribution of railways to bulk cargo transportation and domestic supply chain connectivity for the logistics industry. Sustained growth in freight loading will be important in strengthening multimodal transportation, improving cargo movement efficiency and supporting India's long-term logistics competitiveness. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

Global air freight rates recorded a marginal decline in the week ending November 2, 2026, even as demand remained resilient and pricing levels continued to stay significantly above those of the previous year. According to the latest data from TAC Index, worldwide air freight rates fell 1.1% week on week but remained 22.8% higher year on year, reflecting sustained demand, elevated jet fuel costs and ongoing capacity constraints during the traditional fourth-quarter peak season. The global Baltic Air Freight Index (BAI00) registered the weekly decline, although rates remained above the highest levels recorded during the previous two peak seasons. With several weeks of the year-end peak period still remaining, the market continues to experience firm pricing conditions. Asia-Pacific Markets Show Mixed Performance Air freight rates across major Asian markets displayed varied trends. Outbound rates from Hong Kong increased 0.7% during the week, taking the index 28% above its year-ago level. Shanghai recorded a stronger weekly increase of 2.8%, with rates standing 14.4% higher year on year. Rates from India also firmed slightly on both Europe- and US-bound routes, with year-on-year increases reaching approximately 80%. This highlights the continued strength of demand for Indian air cargo capacity. In contrast, rates from China to Europe experienced a slight decline, partly reflecting weaker shipment volumes following the European Union's removal of the de minimis exemption for low-value parcels in July 2026. Transpacific routes to the US, however, continued to register strong rate increases. European outbound markets also experienced mixed movements. Frankfurt's outbound index declined 6.5% week on week, while London's Heathrow index dropped 23.2%. Despite these corrections, both remained substantially higher than their levels a year earlier. Spot Rates Reflect Tight Capacity Conditions A separate assessment by WorldACD Market Data highlighted the continued upward pressure on spot prices. Global air cargo spot rates increased 5% in the week ending October 25, reaching US$3.80 per kg, representing a 38% year-on-year increase. Full-market rates, combining spot and contract prices, rose 3% to US$3.33 per kg, up 31% annually. Global cargo tonnages declined 2% week on week, while capacity slipped 1%. The contrasting weekly movements reflect different reporting periods and pricing indices rather than a reversal in the broader market trend. Peak Season Outlook With Diwali, Thanksgiving, Black Friday and Christmas driving seasonal shipment activity, air cargo operators and freight forwarders face continued pressure to secure capacity. Elevated fuel costs, geopolitical uncertainties and shifting trade flows are further influencing pricing across major international corridors. Despite the modest weekly correction reported by TAC Index, strong year-on-year rate increases indicate that the global air freight market remains firm. Capacity availability and demand patterns over the coming weeks will be crucial in determining how rates evolve through the remainder of the peak season. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

Singapore Airlines (SIA) has appointed Menzies Aviation to provide cargo, ramp and passenger handling services at Western Sydney International (Nancy-Bird Walton) Airport (WSI), strengthening the airport's operational readiness ahead of its launch later this month. The agreement will see Menzies support Singapore Airlines' daily passenger flights as well as ad hoc freighter operations from 23 November 2026, when the airline commences services at the new 24-hour airport in Sydney, Australia. The appointment marks an important development in Menzies Aviation's expansion at Western Sydney International Airport, where the company has established a 12,500-square-metre cargo facility with an annual handling capacity of up to 200,000 tonnes. The warehouse is Menzies' largest cargo facility across Oceania and Southeast Asia, positioning it to support growing air freight requirements in the region. Located within the airport's dedicated cargo precinct, the facility is designed to handle a diverse range of shipments, including pharmaceuticals, perishables, e-commerce consignments and heavy freight. It will also deploy Menzies' next-generation cargo management platform, MACH (Menzies Aviation Cargo Handling), to improve shipment visibility, operational efficiency and real-time tracking for customers. The partnership builds on the established relationship between the two aviation companies. Menzies already provides freighter ramp handling services for Singapore Airlines in Sydney and Melbourne. Earlier this year, the ground handling company also secured Singapore Airlines' ground handling contracts in Brisbane and Cairns. Darren Masters, Executive Vice President Oceania, Southeast Asia and China, Menzies Aviation, described the appointment as a significant milestone, as Singapore Airlines becomes the company's first airline customer at Western Sydney International Airport. He highlighted the role of its integrated passenger, ramp and cargo capabilities in supporting airline growth and strengthening Australia's supply chains. Foo Chai Woo, Regional Vice President South West Pacific, Singapore Airlines, said the airline was working closely with Menzies to ensure operational preparedness and maintain the service standards expected by its passengers and cargo customers. The latest contract further expands Menzies Aviation's Australian network, where it provides air cargo and ground handling services across 15 airports. Western Sydney International will become its 11th cargo operation in the country. With dedicated cargo infrastructure, digital handling capabilities and integrated ground services, the partnership is expected to contribute to the development of Western Sydney International Airport as an important aviation and cargo gateway for Australia, supporting exporters and the country's wider logistics network. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!

Indian Railways has strengthened its freight transportation capacity by placing additional orders for 9,638 wagons worth approximately ₹3,925.41 crore across five manufacturers. The latest procurement expands the existing wagon supply contracts by 24.57%, reflecting the national transporter’s efforts to improve freight-handling capabilities and accommodate rising demand for bulk commodity transportation. The Railway Board has exercised the 30% option clause included in the existing procurement agreements to increase the contracted quantities. With this addition, the total number of wagons covered under seven contracts has increased to 48,864 units, according to reports. The additional orders have been distributed among five wagon manufacturers, with Titagarh Wagons receiving the largest share. Under the expanded procurement programme, Titagarh Wagons will manufacture and supply 4,955 additional wagons valued at ₹2,025.95 crore, taking its total contracted quantity to 21,804 units. Jupiter Wagons has received an additional order for 2,583 wagons worth ₹1,050.55 crore across two contracts, increasing its total contracted quantity to 13,005 wagons. Texmaco Rail & Engineering will supply 1,020 additional wagons valued at ₹412.32 crore, taking its cumulative order quantity to 4,420 units. The remaining orders have been allocated to Besco and Oriental Foundry. Besco will supply 720 additional wagons worth ₹291.05 crore across two divisional contracts, taking its total contracted quantity to 3,120 wagons. Oriental Foundry has secured an order for 360 wagons valued at ₹145.53 crore, increasing its contracted quantity to 1,560 units. The additional procurement comprises exclusively open wagons designed for transporting bulk commodities. These wagons play an important role in supporting large-volume freight movement across the railway network, particularly for industries dependent on reliable and cost-efficient transportation. The expanded orders are scheduled for delivery by June 2027. The procurement comes as Indian Railways prepares for another year of record freight loading and seeks to strengthen its ability to accommodate growing cargo volumes. Increasing wagon availability is an important component of improving freight operations. A larger fleet can provide greater flexibility in managing cargo requirements, support the movement of higher volumes and help address capacity constraints across busy freight corridors. The addition of wagons is also expected to support more efficient utilisation of railway infrastructure and strengthen the overall freight transportation ecosystem. The latest ₹3,925-crore procurement expansion underlines Indian Railways' continued focus on enhancing freight capacity and strengthening its partnership with domestic railway equipment manufacturers. This move also provides additional business opportunities for the wagon manufacturing industry, with five suppliers receiving increased orders under existing contracts. For manufacturers, the expanded requirements offer greater production visibility, while the scheduled deliveries provide a defined timeline for executing the additional orders. As India continues to prioritise rail-based freight transportation, investments in rolling stock will remain important for supporting industrial supply chains. Therefore, the additional 9,638 wagons represent another step towards building a more capable freight network, aligned with Indian Railways' broader ambition of increasing rail's role in the country's transportation landscape. 𝐒𝐭𝐚𝐲 𝐓𝐮𝐧𝐞𝐝 𝐭𝐨 CARGOCONNECT 𝐟𝐨𝐫 𝐥𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬𝐭 𝐮𝐩𝐝𝐚𝐭𝐞𝐬!