Mangaluru Takes Off: International Cargo Takes Flight

Mangaluru International Airport has started international cargo operations from its integrated cargo terminal as of July 2. The inaugural flight, IX 815, transported 2522 kg of fruits and vegetables to Abu Dhabi. The official launch event was held on Friday, attended by the airport’s leadership team, Customs officials, airline representatives, and the Airport Security Group of CISF.

A media statement highlighted the advantages for exporters from coastal Karnataka, Kerala, and nearby regions. They can now export perishables such as fresh fruits and vegetables, food, machine parts, textiles, shoes, tropical fish, frozen and dry fish, plastic coloring material, and ship parts (propellers) as belly cargo. The new international cargo operations promise significant benefits for local businesses.

IndiGo and Air India Express, with their wide-reaching connectivity, will facilitate exports to major destinations like Dubai, Doha, Dammam, Kuwait, Muscat, Abu Dhabi, and Bahrain. This expanded service is expected to boost trade and economic activities in the region.

The airport had commenced domestic cargo operations on May 1, 2023. Subsequently, on May 10, 2024, the Commissioner of Customs appointed the airport as both a Custodian and a Customs Cargo Service Provider, enabling the launch of international cargo services.

In its initial 11 months of domestic cargo operations from May 1, 2023, Mangaluru International Airport handled 3706.02 tonnes of cargo for the financial year 2024-25, which included 279.21 tonnes of inbound and 3426.8 tonnes of outbound cargo, indicating robust performance and growth prospects.

News by Rahul Yelligetti