India targets 10 million metric tonnes of air cargo by 2030

India is targeting a significant expansion of its air cargo sector, aiming for an annual throughput of 10 million metric tonnes by 2030. This goal represents a substantial increase from the current capacity of approximately 8 million metric tonnes. Civil Aviation Minister Ram Mohan Naidu has emphasized the need for increased investment in infrastructure and a larger fleet of dedicated freighter aircraft, noting that India currently operates only about 17 registered freighters compared to over 200 in the United States.

To support time-sensitive shipments, the government intends to reduce average cargo processing times from eight hours to six hours. Efforts are also underway to integrate airports with road and rail networks to enhance multimodal logistics. Long-term ambitions include reaching over 21 million metric tonnes of throughput by 2047.

In a related development, Minister Naidu visited the Continental Air Freight Station in Kapashera, Delhi. The facility, established by Continental Carriers Private Limited, is described as India’s first Greenfield Air Freight Station and serves as a milestone in strengthening the nation's air cargo ecosystem.