Unprecedented Growth in Cargo Handling

In an impressive display of growth and efficiency, Rajiv Gandhi International Airport (RGIA), operated by GMR Hyderabad International Airport Ltd (GHIAL), reported a 22% increase in cargo shipments for the year 2024. Handling a total of 1,80,914 metric tonnes, the airport has set new benchmarks in cargo transportation.

International and Domestic Cargo Flourish

Breaking down the numbers, international cargo shipments soared by 36%, reaching 1,08,520 MT, while domestic cargo saw a 5% rise to 72,395 MT. This remarkable growth underscores the airport's pivotal role in global trade and logistics.

Pharmaceuticals Lead the Way

High-value pharmaceutical shipments dominated the cargo scene, accounting for 72% of the total shipments from Hyderabad airport. Additionally, electrical and electronic items, along with engineering goods, also recorded significant growth, further diversifying the cargo portfolio.

Expanding Global Reach

The cargo was transported to over 20 international destinations, including the US, Europe, Latin America, Africa, the Middle East, South Asia, Australia, and China, via both passenger and freighter flights. The United States and Europe alone accounted for 51% of the total exports, highlighting the airport's strategic importance in international trade.

Infrastructure Expansion to Meet Demand

In response to the surging demand, GHIAL is undertaking a significant expansion of the cargo infrastructure at the airport. This includes upgrading the existing cargo terminal 1, which will feature a domestic terminal, international courier and express terminal, and a dedicated export perishables terminal upon completion. Furthermore, a new cargo terminal 2 is in the works, expected to substantially increase the overall handling capacity, with its first phase set to become operational this year.

An additional 20,000 square feet of warehousing space is also being developed within the RGIA cargo village to enhance the airport's logistics capabilities. These developments are poised to boost operational efficiency and customer satisfaction, ensuring that Rajiv Gandhi International Airport remains at the forefront of cargo transportation.

Accreditations and Certifications

Adding to its credentials, Hyderabad cargo was reaccredited under the IATA Safety Audit for Ground Operations Programme (ISAGO) in February 2024 and achieved US Customs-Trade Partnership Against Terrorism (CTPAT) certification. These accolades affirm the airport's commitment to safety, security, and excellence in cargo handling.