Jaideep Mirchandani, Group Chairman of Sky One, explores how India’s true potential in the cargo realm can be unlocked.
Recently, the Bureau of Civil Aviation Security (BCAS) India removed the requirement for mandatory cargo re-screening at transfer airports, a move expected to simplify and accelerate air cargo logistics. This decision is considered a crucial step towards reducing delays at major transhipment hubs such as Mumbai, Delhi and Kolkata. Industry experts believe that further measures of this kind will be essential if India is to reach its goal of handling 10 million tonnes of cargo annually by 2030.
As the Chartered Institute of Logistics and Transport (CILT) marks the International Day of Supply Chain, Logistics and Transportation (November 3), it is an appropriate occasion for India to align with broader initiatives that strengthen the global supply chain.
“We recognise that achieving 10 million tonnes of annual cargo movement is ambitious, but it is within reach. It requires a carefully planned approach involving policy reforms, infrastructure growth and digital integration across the air cargo ecosystem. Strengthening coordination among all stakeholders, including customs, airports, airlines, shippers and freight forwarders, will be essential to ensure smooth, efficient and transparent cargo operations,” says Jaideep Mirchandani, Group Chairman of Sky One.
Another priority area, according to Mr. Mirchandani, is transhipment. “Global hubs such as Hong Kong and Dubai handle substantial volumes of transit cargo routed through their airports to various destinations. India, with its strategic location and expanding airport network, has the potential to develop into a major transhipment hub in the region,” he notes.
Mr. Mirchandani also underscores the importance of infrastructure development, highlighting that significant investment in new cargo terminals and the expansion of existing ones is vital. He cites the newly inaugurated Navi Mumbai International Airport and the upcoming Noida International Airport as key examples of such progress.
“The use of advanced technologies such as blockchain, IoT and AI can streamline processes, improve transparency and reduce operational costs, thereby strengthening the cargo supply chain. The rapid growth of e-commerce in India is also driving demand for efficient and reliable air cargo services. Technology is reshaping the sector, and by adopting digital tools, it is possible to optimise workflows, increase accuracy and meet the rising expectations of customers,” he adds.
Mr. Mirchandani concludes that India’s strategy should be rooted in optimisation, technology, resilience, environmental responsibility and strategic geography. “Global demand is increasing rapidly, yet capacity constraints, cost structures and environmental considerations present complex challenges. By prioritising smart capacity management and turnaround efficiency, leveraging automation and AI, anticipating volatility and maintaining environmentally responsible operations, India can realise its true potential as a major cargo hub,” he says.
